Increasing energy efficiency in buildings and integrating clean energy solutions is one of the main directions in the decarbonization process.
Modern.az reports that Aysel Yaqubova, Executive Director of the Clean Energy Center of the Economic Cooperation Organization (CECECO), stated this at a panel session titled “Decarbonization of housing and buildings in the context of the Urban-Industrial-Climate nexus” within the 13th session of the World Urban Forum held in Baku.
She noted that passive design measures are of particular importance in the first stage to reduce emissions:
“Proper building design, shading systems, thermal insulation, and optimal use of daylight contribute significantly to decarbonization in the initial stage.”
According to A. Yaqubova, the second important direction is the energy renovation of existing buildings, i.e., “retrofitting” measures:
“The installation of energy-efficient windows, renovation of roof systems, and measures to reduce heat loss are especially important for our region. Because old and historical buildings prevail here.”
The executive director emphasized that one of the main activities of the organization is the integration of clean energy systems into buildings. This includes rooftop solar panels, decentralized energy systems, smart management solutions, and district heating and cooling systems.
“Energy efficiency policy should not only cover new buildings. Old buildings that will be used for decades cannot be ignored.”
She added that various measures are already being implemented in the countries of the region.
“In Azerbaijan, the application of “green building” standards is encouraged, and green taxonomy has been adopted by the government. In Turkey, rules related to the energy performance of buildings are applied, in Kazakhstan, large-scale renovation of Soviet-era buildings is being carried out, and in Kyrgyzstan, with the support of the UN and UNDP, construction legislation has been updated to include renewable energy solutions and mandatory temperature control systems.”
A. Yaqubova noted that sustainable energy centers play an important role in terms of experience exchange, technical support, attracting financial resources, and policy dialogue among regions:
“The “Heliocycle” initiative presented by a participant from Azerbaijan was also cited as an example. The project is a digital platform that provides weather-appropriate heating use and behavioral recommendations.”
She also stated that energy efficiency is not only about technology:
“In many cases, behavioral changes play a role at least as important as technological solutions,” the executive director noted.
