The Building Retrofits Program targets the main energy and water consuming systems of existing buildings in a comprehensive manner. Major building systems targeted in retrofit projects include cooling, ventilation, lighting, building envelope, control systems, and water fittings.
The program was launched in October 2018, with a target of 3,000 buildings to be retrofitted by 2040. The government has committed to leading by example in retrofits, with the issuance of Resolution no. 15 of 2018 by H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.
The Energy Efficiency and Renewables Office (Reem) of the Municipality, as the program owner, plays the role of a facilitator to support adoption of retrofit projects, primarily in the government and commercial sectors.
An ESCO accreditation scheme has been established, ensuring that the ESCOs selected for projects are qualified and capable, from both a technical and a financial standpoint. All companies that fit this profile are encouraged to seek accreditation from the Municipality. Additionally, incentives have been introduced to promote the establishment of capable ESCOs and energy auditors in Ras Al Khaimah. Guidelines on availing these incentives are downloadable through the link provided in the related documents section below.
There are two levels of requirements in Barjeel, namely the fundamental and the comprehensive regulations. The fundamental regulations comprise few and simple requirements which are applicable for small buildings. The comprehensive regulations, on the other hand, comprise additional requirements for larger and more complex buildings.
3,000 buildings to be retrofitted by the end of 2040
