Masdar City unveils the region's first zero-energy mosque and construction will begin in 2024

Weather of Arabia - The Sustainability and Innovation Center in Masdar City revealed the establishment of the first zero energy mosque in the region. The city looks forward to updating the standards of the place of worship sector in the region through a unique design that protects the environment, encourages community building and preserves cultural heritage.

The first zero energy mosque in the Masdar area

Masdar City aims to create a new standard in the sector of houses of worship in the region, through a unique design that ensures environmental protection, promotes community building and preserves cultural heritage simultaneously.

Mohammed Al Buraiki, Executive Director of Masdar City’s Sustainable Urban Development Department, pointed to their success in designing and implementing several emission-free energy projects. He stressed that this project holds special importance for the entire team and for him personally. The project will be more than just a place of worship, as it will constitute a religious meeting place and community center, taking visitors on a cultural, religious and environmental journey, and embodied as a powerful symbol of their appreciation for the community and their dedication to implementing projects that benefit humanity in general.

Lutz Wilgen, Head of Design at Masdar City, pointed out that the city's motto has always been focused on reducing carbon emissions and encouraging others to take the same actions. He described the design of the mosque as a unique challenge and emphasized the balance between beauty, culture, performance and sustainability after months of cooperation and consultation. The building, which extends over an area of 2,349 square meters and can accommodate 1,300 worshipers, will generate 100% of the energy it needs throughout the year using photovoltaic panels located on site, while reducing energy needs by 35% using a passive design that responds to environmental conditions.

The main structure of the mosque will be made primarily of rammed earth, and a series of tiered windows on the roof will allow the space to be illuminated with cascading natural light patterns, while external columns will provide shade from the sun as worshipers move from the outside to the inner portico of the mosque.

Masdar City will ensure that at least 70% of construction waste is reused, and local and recycled materials are used to reduce cost and carbon footprint. You will have low-flow water equipment and fixtures and drought-resistant garden and landscape design, which will reduce water consumption by 55%. The building is targeting a LEED Platinum and Four-Pearl Sustainability Rating, and will be designed to achieve a “WELL Gold” rating that focuses on the safety and well-being of residents. Construction of the mosque is expected to begin in 2024, with a completion date to be announced at a later date.

Source: websites