Evaluating Energy Consumption in Residential Buildings in Qatar: A Case Study on Compounds

The global urgency to cut carbon emissions and pollution is clear. Qatar, rich in fossil fuels, is shifting towards sustainability to reduce carbon emissions. This paper analyzes the energy consumption patterns in residential buildings in Qatar, categorizing them by size and ownership, and establishing energy benchmarks for each building type, offering insights to guide energy efficiency policies. By examining the building size and ownership, the study helps establish benchmarks, supporting Qatar's sustainability goals in reducing carbon emissions. The study was conducted from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2021, utilizing data from the Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (KAHRAMAA). A total of 172,796 residential buildings were analyzed, with data on building characteristics and demographic information incorporated into the analysis. A quantitative analysis revealed that the building size, ownership, and demographics significantly impact energy consumption, guiding efficiency strategies. The ownership and floor area significantly impact energy consumption. A strong positive correlation (R = 0.97) was found between energy consumption (kWh) and the total built area (m2). The patterns of energy use varied across different residential building types. The findings highlight the importance of considering the ownership and building size in energy efficiency policies. Identifying specific energy use patterns supports the development of targeted strategies. This research offers valuable data on residential energy consumption in Qatar, providing a foundation for energy benchmarks. These benchmarks can guide policy decisions and strategies to enhance energy efficiency and promote sustainability in the residential sector. This study uniquely connects the ownership and building size with energy consumption patterns in Qatar, supporting the development of effective energy policies and contributing to global sustainability goals.