Smart-Eco-House in Oman as a Key Component of a Sustainable Future - Field Study

Abstract

The recent drop in oil prices has lead Oman, a country with an oil dependent economy, to consider new sustainable policies and attitudes.The Sultanate’s five-year plan (2011-2015) began the development of renewable energy and environmental protection. One of the state’s approaches was hosting the National Eco-House Design contest in 2011 between higher educational institutions. However, disseminating the eco-house concept will take decades to be effective. This commentary argues for the potential of the Smart -Eco house to provide a quick and effective solution to support the present nationwide policy of promoting more sustainable practices. Based on relevant literature review, a questionnaire was written, and interviews were conducted with high ranking government policymakers and directors of smart home companies. The paper aims to draw the attention of the government, experts, decision-makers, and educational institutions to integrate the Smart – Eco house into their efforts towards efficient building energy performance, supporting the national economy, energy infrastructure, and the country’s environmentally sustainable policies.