The need for development of innovative design concepts for achieving energy efficiency in hotel buildings was highlighted by a top official of Swiss-Belhotel International speaking in a panel of experts on BIPV at the Big 5 Global Solar Leaders’ Summit.

Massive investments in renewable energy projects are being made in the region with a wave of projects underway and the UAE is leading the way, said Devinder K Sharma, regional director of Technical Services.

The topic discussion was ‘Innovation in Solar Building Skins and Energy Efficiency towards Sustainable Cities’.

Renewable energy is a global phenomenon and the adoption of solar PV systems in the Middle East is starting to accelerate which will soon lead to a more diversified national energy supply portfolio.

“Key issue is the collaboration among the various stakeholders of the building design and construction process, such as building owners, developers, architects, building material suppliers, regulatory authorities and specialized PV/BIPV industry experts. Increasing awareness among all people involved can lead to significant benefits for our sector. Therefore, it is important to start a dialogue, so we can all collaborate for a better future,” Sharma said.

There are multiple factors that are driving solar energy solutions in the urban sector. Industry experts agreed that in order to prepare for an urban influx of 2.5 billion people by 2050, it is critical to create cities that are low-carbon, resilient and affordable. Solar energy solutions are greener and cheaper than the alternatives.

According to recent reports, the UAE is among the world’s top investors in clean energy and is set to invest Dh600 billion ($163 billion) by 2050 in the sector with a target to have 75 per cent of the total power output from it. Mohammed Bin Rashid Solar Park has announced plans to build one of the world’s largest solar energy plants, which will be able to generate 5GW of power by 2030.

Swiss-Belhotel International currently manages a portfolio of more than 150 hotels, resorts and projects worldwide.  Awarded Indonesia's Leading Global Hotel Chain for six consecutive years, Swiss-Belhotel International is one of the world's fastest-growing international hotel and hospitality management groups. – TradeArabia News Service