The International Renewable Energy Agency Headquarters (IRENA)

At a glance

Location

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Type of project

Construction

Client

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC

Contract type

Design & Build

Status

Completed

ESD rating

Four-Pearl Estidama Rating

Three oval-shaped buildings on existing piled foundations

Located in Masdar City – a clean technology cluster and low carbon city in Abu Dhabi – the 32,000sqm, 7-storey Grade A office and retail complex will consist of three oval-shaped buildings fitted with 1,000 square metres of rooftop photovoltaic solar panels that will supply renewable electricity to tenants.

The complex is the headquarters for Masdar and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

The complex will also have a 50-per cent reduction in energy usage compared to a typical Abu Dhabi building and is targeting a four-Pearl rating on the Estidama green building scale. This is one of the highest energy efficiency and sustainability certifications available internationally.

A community courtyard, shared by all three oval structures, will link people from their offices to places to shop, dine, walk, and experience all that Masdar City has to offer.

Appointed in October 2012, Multiplex is responsible for the Core and Shell design and build works. The construction of piled foundations and slab on grade was initially completed under a separate contract and for a building with another structural layout, making for an interesting design challenge. This will be resolved through the use of a lightweight structural steel frame and concrete transfer beams at ground level.

2016– National Winner, Sustainable Project of the Year - MEED Quality Awards
2015– Most Sustainable Commercial Building - Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC)
2014– Green Project of the Year - Big Project Awards
2014– Sustainable Construction Project of the Year - BGreen Awards