Although energy modelling has its benefits, there is a need for greater awareness of its potential in the GCC region, said Ashraf Ali Khan, Sustainability Consultant at Hoare Lea. “Most clients are not aware of the significant benefits that come with energy modelling,” he said. “In most cases, clients approach us only because energy modelling is a requirement for ESTIDAMA, but I am yet to see cases where clients come and talk to us about energy modelling alone. It is only when clients go through the process of energy modelling that they realise its true value and benefits, owing to the prediction of savings.”

Explaining how clients can understand the benefits of energy modelling, he said: “The investment in energy modelling is not much, and the savings are high, but it will be realised only in the long run. Once the savings come in, they can then compare it to the investment.”