Qatar General Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (GASM) of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) marked yesterday the entry of the first energy saving air-conditioner in Qatar.
Dr Mohamed Saif al-Kuwari, MME assistant undersecretary for laboratories and standardisation, said that the GASM is set to issue the green building code, in addition to the national project to save electricity.
He said the upcoming period will witness the importing of more energy saving ACs, which would replace the old types that consume more energy.
Manufacturers and suppliers of ACs have been granted 30 months to comply with new norms. The enforcement of the energy saving ACs imports will start from July 1, while in January 2017 the new regulations for importing heaters, washing machines and fridges will be announced.
Dr al-Kuwari stressed the extra cost of the new ACs would not exceed 10% more of the old ones and may be even of the same price but they would considerably reduce the use of energy.

Awsaj Academy celebrates graduation of Class of 2016
Awsaj Academy, a specialised institute which addresses the needs of students with learning challenges, recognised their largest ever batch of graduates in an official ceremony recently.
As part of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, Awsaj Academy honoured its Class of 2016 with a guest speech from Fahad al-Subaiey, chairman of Awsaj Academy board of governors.
Al-Subaiey recognised the young graduates for their achievements and discussed their future potential as they continue to overcome challenges with enthusiasm and perseverance.
Al-Subaiey said: “We would like to express our deep gratitude and appreciation for the efforts of HH Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, chairperson, Qatar Foundation, whose inspirited efforts culminated in the establishment of this unique educational institution. We also thank HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad al-Thani, vice chairperson, CEO, Qatar Foundation, for her enthusiastic and committed support of the Academy.”
The ceremony was also attended by Dr Donald Francis, director of Awsaj Academy, parents and staff members. A number of students were also recognised during the ceremony for their accomplishments during their time at the school, including valedictorian Fahad Abdullah al-Thani and Salutatorian Faisal Jamal al-Jassim.