The award was given to Taqeef for their innovative support for sustainable building solutions and their use of green design and technology in this iconic development. The nine billion AED, 12.5 million-square metre Ain Al Fayda development forms a key part of the Emirati Family Housing Programme – a comprehensive, mixed-use, master-planned community catering to an estimated 60,000 population base.
By using Midea’s VRF technology for this ‘world-first’ project, the judges noted that Taqeef demonstrated support for sustainable growth through investment in clean energy and smart technologies as outlined in the UAE Vision 2021, The Green Growth Strategy, The Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy (DIES) 2030 and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
The scope of this project – the largest VRF installation in the world – has already secured significant savings. With 51% occupancy since January 2018, these include estimated power savings of 54,358,200 KWh, CO2 savings of 29,190,353 Kg and electricity bill savings of 21,743,280 AED.
Speaking at the ceremony which took place at Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, Tariq Al Ghussein, CEO at Taqeef, commented: “We are thrilled to be recognised in this important category. This award is testament to the dedication of our team and partners in delivering innovative, large-scale cooling solutions that are designed to improve the efficiency of buildings and reduce the impact on both human health and the environment.”
He added: “While VRF wasn’t the simplest solution for this project, it was the most sustainable, and so that made it an obvious choice to us. Through the innovation of our product partners at Midea and that of our talented technical team, we were able to deliver a project that made a positive impact on our business, our region and our industry.
The Gulf Sustainability and CSR Awards provide recognition for companies and individuals implementing outstanding Sustainability and CSR initiatives across the region. It also acts as a vehicle for organisations and businesses to share best practice and to promote continuous improvement, learning and industry development.