ZEMCH 2015 - International Conference Proceedings | Page 662

Figure 8: The challenges
Regarding the UAE retrofit market, as well as all the previous barriers and challenges, the lack of
extra important issues add to the complexity of the mission, such as:
• The Energy Performance Contract (EPC) and the mechanism for payment through M&V are
unlikely to be recognized by a court in the UAE.
• Lack of insurance options for EPC contractors. This could be a barrier for financing such a project.
• Qualified ESCOs are limited.
• Available data is not consistent and limited.
• The government subsidies to energy production prices.

5. Polices and Regulations
Integrating energy-related necessities during the retrofit phase is as important as implementing
them during the design phase for new buildings. This step is a key component in providing energy efficient measures, which in turn emphasizes the importance of the building code regarding
energy issues.
5.1 Building Code Requirements for Existing Buildings
Based on the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) (article 5) requirements for existing buildings which only applies to large buildings over 1000m2, the building needs to be functionally, technically and economically feasible. Different approaches have been adapted by countries when buildings have a major renovation. For example, a very progressive approach has been
adapted by Switzerland to improve the existing buildings’ performance, which focused on the
thermal performance for upgraded buildings must not go beyond 125% of the new building limit.
Other countries have focused on the building elements’ standards (windows, doors, etc.) through
providing the minimum performance standards, in addition to replacing the energy using plant
with an efficient one. Some countries show a good example by following a completely performance-based requirement in addition to the components’ requirements that are retrofitted.
5.2 Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
EPCs demonstrate the energy performance rating of buildings in some countries. EPCs will motivate individuals and have a great incentive to increase the buildings’ energy efficiency. Most

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ZEMCH 2015 | International Conference | Bari - Lecce, Italy