Energy efficiency building codes and green pyramid rating system

Abstract

Three building energy codes were introduced in Egypt between 2005 and 2010. They impose mandatory energy performance requirements for residential, commercial, and governmental buildings. Another code was presented (2013) to improve the indoor air quality and ventilation requirements and system. This chapter addresses the current states and the potential of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and green buildings to reduce the dependence on the fossil fuel. These codes were the base line for green building code. The first edition of the Green Pyramid Rating System was published in December 2010. The Green Pyramid Rating System is a national environmental rating system for buildings. It provides definitive criteria by which the environmental credentials of buildings can be evaluated, and the buildings themselves can be rated. The Egyptian government has an interest in promoting green buildings as part of Egyptian policies of overall sustainable development. The Housing and Building Research Centre (HBRC) established the Egyptian Green Building Council (EGBC) at the beginning of 2009. Another code is under preparation for Green Hotel Rating System in Egypt to improve the Egyptian Touristic sector. The essence of this chapter is to introduce the efforts being undertaken by Egypt to improve the quality of life and highlight the barriers and overcome the challenges that Egypt faces, and these are summarized in three main parameters, namely, energy, water, and housing.