15 teams representing 28 universities from 11 countries around the world spanning 4 continents, represented their smart homes at the first Middle East Solar Decathlon. Knauf Italy and Middle East sponsored and supported project “ReStart_4Smart” by the team from Sapienza University of Rome.
Speaking on the occasion, Amer Bin Ahmed, Managing Director Knauf Middle East and India emphasized the importance of making the present be of value. “As our leaders have said, our future is today not tomorrow. This is a big change for our youth and our environment, in the past this was not the need. New solutions, ideas and innovative products are required in the construction industry to make today sustainable for tomorrow. Knauf stands by this principle.”
“The Solar Decathlon is one of its kind and we are proud that it is being held in the UAE, which sets a benchmark for the region. Knauf is proud to be part of this step forward.
Projects such as these allow for collaboration not just of offices across regions but also with the talent and ideas pool among the youth. We supported with Knauf Aquapanel outdoor system of façade which withstand the extreme climate of the region.”
Andrea Bucci, Managing Director Knauf Italy, agreed that this was a great opportunity to collaborate with young minds and innovative ideas. “Knauf as a DNA is at the apex of innovation of the living space. The Solar Decathlon had us engaged as a market leader in the diverse system.”
The Sapienza University of Rome was selected as it is one of the biggest and most prestigious education hubs in Italy. The team of students was led by Professor Marco Casini. The goal was to design and build a comfortable, affordable, and very high-energy performance smart solar home, fully integrated with Middle East climate conditions.
The lightweight construction enables conductivity which in return saves energy bills for the consumers; making it the main highlight of this sustainable house project. Knauf and Aquapanel contributed all the cladding material for all the facades, ceilings and internal walls. This material is one of the most important materials for the energy performance of the building to maintain the insulation and thermal temperature,” explained Professor Casini.
