Schneider Electric’s Innovative Leap in Dubai: The NEST
A Commitment to Sustainability
In a significant move towards sustainability, Schneider Electric has achieved carbon neutrality for its new Dubai office, known as “The NEST,” just three months after its opening. This accomplishment highlights the company’s commitment to monitoring, disclosing, and offsetting carbon emissions within its state-of-the-art facility. Designed with a focus on resource efficiency, collaboration, and employee well-being, The NEST integrates advanced hardware and software to adapt to future needs and ensure resilience in a rapidly evolving environment.
Launching the Impact Buildings Program
The inauguration of The NEST in May also marked the debut of Schneider Electric’s Impact Buildings Program. This initiative aims to enhance sustainability across the company’s global commercial real estate portfolio using its EcoStruxure solutions suite. Visitors to The NEST can experience innovative technologies such as Building Operation, Power Monitoring Expert, Building Data Platform, and Planon, all designed to showcase smart building capabilities.
Energy Efficiency Achievements
Amel Chadli, President of the Gulf Cluster at Schneider Electric, emphasized the building’s energy efficiency, stating, “By embedding our own technologies, we have cut energy consumption by 37% this year.” The company aims to achieve a reduction of over 700 tons of CO2 emissions annually by 2026, demonstrating that a net-zero future is within reach. The NEST aligns with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative, serving as a model for sustainable development.
The Four Pillars of The NEST
The design of The NEST is built upon four main pillars:
-
Sustainability: The building targets a reduction of over 700 tons of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to the energy use of 82 homes in the UAE. It aims for 47% of its energy to come from renewable sources, working towards LEED Platinum certification.
-
People-Centric Design: The NEST prioritizes employee health with features like improved indoor air quality and daylight harvesting. It includes a Next-Gen Innovation Hub equipped with smart meeting rooms and visitor management systems, aiming for a WELL Equity Rating.
-
Resilience: The building incorporates a microgrid and a digital twin for operational efficiency, along with a cybersecure edge data center that ensures predictive maintenance and effective asset management.
-
Efficiency: The NEST employs AI-driven analytics for space occupancy, HVAC optimization, and maintenance, targeting over 50% savings in energy and water usage while automating facility management workflows.
Addressing Global Carbon Emissions
With buildings contributing to approximately 37% of global carbon emissions, The NEST serves as a prime example of how technology can enhance sustainability in the built environment. Schneider Electric is integrating digital monitoring and automation into building infrastructure to optimize electricity and water efficiency, aligning with its vision of “Electricity 4.0.”
A Hub for Innovation
Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis’s Technology Hub, The NEST spans 10,000 square meters and accommodates over 1,000 employees. It recently earned the Platinum SmartScore certification from WiredScore, affirming its commitment to sustainability and aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The building achieved perfect scores in User Functionality, Technological Foundation, and Innovation, and is currently undergoing assessment for WELL and LEED ID+C Platinum certifications.
Supporting Local Talent
Walid Sheta, Zone President for the Middle East and Africa at Schneider Electric, remarked, “With The NEST, we are showcasing how digitalization and electrification can significantly enhance sustainability within the built environment.” The facility includes a dedicated Training Center aimed at equipping local professionals and youth with essential skills for the future. The design fosters collaboration and productivity, featuring 360 workstations and 90 meeting rooms, along with a modular amphitheater.
Conclusion
The NEST stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability in the Gulf region, embodying Schneider Electric’s commitment to creating a more sustainable future. By integrating cutting-edge technology and prioritizing employee well-being, The NEST not only enhances operational efficiency but also empowers local talent, paving the way for a greener tomorrow.
