PM Barzani Inaugurates AUK Residence Hall, First in Iraq with LEED Gold Certification
The six-story building received 62 points under the LEED Building Design and Construction (BD+C) rating system, making it the first building in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region to obtain the internationally recognized certification.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Thursday inaugurated the American University of Kurdistan’s (AUK) new Men’s Residence Hall, the first building in Iraq to receive LEED Gold certification for sustainable construction.
The six-story building received 62 points under the LEED Building Design and Construction (BD+C) rating system, making it the first building in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region to obtain the internationally recognized certification.
Covering more than 10,000 square meters, the residence hall has 103 bedrooms and can accommodate between 183 and 200 students in single, double, and accessible rooms.
The facility includes shared kitchens, dining areas, and laundry facilities on each floor, as well as a gym and dedicated spaces for studying and recreation.
Designed with an emphasis on sustainability, 30 percent of the building’s area is dedicated to open spaces, while 25 percent consists of gardens and green areas.
Solar energy systems provide 75 percent of the building’s indoor lighting needs. The integration of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and smart cooling equipment has also reduced electricity consumption by 20 percent.
The building uses rainwater collection and treated wastewater systems for irrigation, meaning no potable water is used to maintain its green spaces.
The surrounding area features dedicated bicycle paths, three electric vehicle charging stations, an advanced recycling system, and nighttime lighting controls.
The facilities are part of AUK’s efforts to promote sustainable development and provide students with a modern and environmentally friendly living environment.