Emirates Green Building Council (EmiratesGBC) has announced the launch of energy efficiency database on its website to facilitate building retrofit projects by streamlining the energy efficiency market in the UAE.

An independent forum aimed at conserving the environment by strengthening and promoting green building practices, EmiratesGBC had late last year launched its ‘energy efficiency programme' with the aim to act as a bridge that networks industry experts for participation in future energy efficiency projects.

The programme consists of a database that serves as a catalyst for all interested players, including equipment manufacturers and vendors, contractors, facility managers, banks and financiers, insurance companies and energy service companies to assist in facilitating their industry requirements related to energy efficiency, by directing their needs to other players.

Part of the ‘EmiratesGBC Energy Efficiency Programme’ (EEP), the forum has developed this comprehensive database of products and services provided by its corporate members; which showcases a reputable body of industry experts dedicated to enhancing the building retrofit industry in the UAE.

The addition of the online feature complements the programme, providing EmiratesGBC members with instant access to the energy efficiency Database. In addition, it will further streamline information gathering, processing and sharing within the energy efficiency industry.

Commenting on the programme, the chairman Saeed Al Abbar, said: "We launched the Energy Efficiency Programme as part of our commitment to raising awareness on the importance of green buildings and energy efficiency, as well as to improve the links between industry stakeholders to help them tackle the challenges faced when considering an energy efficiency project."

He pointed out that one of the biggest challenges was the lack of awareness of the different players involved.

"With the addition of the new online feature, we are able to speed up the process, streamlining our database in a more user-friendly manner, enabling our members and all stakeholders within the building industry to identify the right partners and solution providers during the planning process," he added.

In addition to its programme, EmiratesGBC has also recently launched its technical guidelines for retrofitting existing buildings, a handbook in English and Arabic.-TradeArabia News Service