The Syrian Engineers Syndicate, in cooperation with the National Energy Research Center (NERC) and Germany’s Iproplan, organized a workshop titled Energy Efficiency and Sustainability in the Building Sector to discuss the development of Syria’s legislative and engineering framework for energy-efficient construction.
The workshop brought together specialists and stakeholders to examine ways of continuing to strengthen Syrian-German cooperation in the field of energy efficiency while supporting sustainable development in the construction sector.
Building a National Energy Efficiency Code
Participants focused on developing national building codes, training engineering personnel and creating a roadmap for Syria’s future energy efficiency standards. The initiative seeks to align construction practices with international standards while promoting more efficient use of energy resources.
Engineer Malik Ali, president of the Syrian Engineers Syndicate, stressed the importance of cooperation between the syndicate, NERC and German partners in developing a national building energy efficiency code. He said the project offers an opportunity to benefit from German expertise while adapting solutions to Syria’s specific needs and circumstances.
Ali added the syndicate plans to share the project’s findings with its branches across Syria to maximize their practical application. He emphasized developing energy efficiency standards requires coordination among government institutions, research centers, the private sector and professional organizations.
According to Ali, thermal insulation and energy efficiency have become both an economic and developmental necessity. Improved efficiency can reduce energy consumption, lower costs, support investment and contribute to reconstruction efforts while promoting the sustainable use of resources.
Expanding Technical Capacity
Dr. Yusuf Hassoun, director of NERC, described Syrian-German cooperation as an important platform for developing building legislation and technical standards. He said the initiative will help build national expertise, strengthen institutional capacity and facilitate the exchange of knowledge with German specialists.
Hassoun noted these efforts support the creation of a national energy efficiency code while encouraging wider adoption of sustainable building concepts and energy-saving practices. Engineer Borjis al-Issa said the project aims to strengthen Syria’s energy efficiency system through the development of specialized regulations, professional training programs, targeted research and enhanced cooperation among government, academic and professional institutions.
Drawing on German Experience
Dr. Saad Baradai highlighted Germany’s extensive experience in energy efficiency, noting that the country has developed advanced legislative and engineering systems to address energy security and consumption challenges. These efforts have contributed to high standards for sustainable construction and building performance. Baradai encouraged Syria to draw on this experience as it develops its own energy efficiency framework and expands the use of sustainable construction practices.
NERC, which operates under the Ministry of Energy, serves as Syria’s specialized scientific institution for renewable energy and energy efficiency research. The center supports efforts to strengthen energy security and advance the transition toward a green economy through applied studies and technical development initiatives.
