An Analytical Study on the Implementation of Energy-Efficient Design Strategies in Office Buildings in Khartoum, Sudan

Mofida M. Saad; Osman M. El; Qrrad Fadlallah

Mofida M. Saad University Lecturer, Sudan University of Science & Technology Street 61 Alamaarat, Sudan
Osman M. El Ph. D. Arch., Chairman: Newtech Consulting Group (newtech-consulting.ae), Ex-co-chair: Arc Peace International, Sudan
Qrrad Fadlallah Ph. D. Arch., Sudan University of Science & Technology, Sudan

Keywords: Energy consumption, Energy-efficient design, Office buildings, Global warming, Sustainable architecture

Abstract

This study examines the implementation of energy-efficient design strategies in high-rise office buildings in Khartoum, Sudan, where energy demand is exceptionally high. Such buildings contribute significantly to global energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions, intensifying environmental challenges such as global warming. Understanding and applying energy-efficient design principles is therefore crucial for energy conservation in the built environment.

Fifteen recently constructed office buildings were analyzed as case studies, supported by occupant interviews. Respondents were asked to indicate their awareness of selected energy-efficient strategies identified in previous research. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to evaluate the findings. Results indicate that the adoption of energy-efficient design strategies during the design stage is limited, leading to excessive energy consumption. The strategies most widely recognized by practitioners were site planning, natural ventilation, and building orientation, while other critical strategies, such as the building envelope, were largely neglected.

The study concludes that increasing the awareness and implementation of energy-efficient design strategies requires coordinated efforts from stakeholders in Sudan’s building industry. Professional associations and regulatory bodies should promote training programs and awareness initiatives to encourage the integration of sustainable design practices and reduce the environmental footprint of office buildings.

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