Energy and Sustainability Division Manager Saif Ismail

Saif Ismail holds a Master’s Degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Baghdad and is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Smart Building Technology at the University of New Mexico, Civil and Environmental Engineering Department. Since 2019, he has served as the Energy and Sustainability Division Manager for the City of Albuquerque, where he leads the City’s energy efficiency, renewable energy, and climate action initiatives.

In this role, Saif oversees citywide energy and sustainability programs, including the development of policies, management of utility budgets, deployment of smart metering and real-time data systems, and execution of energy performance contracting projects. He has directed numerous initiatives that reduced energy consumption by up to 40% in municipal facilities, advanced the City’s transition to 100% renewable electricity, and delivered millions of dollars in cost savings through efficiency upgrades, electrification, and renewable energy integration.

Saif has managed high-impact projects such as the installation of solar PV carports, LED lighting upgrades, EV charging infrastructure, and the creation of the Balanced Resource Acquisition and Information Network (BRAIN) — the City’s first comprehensive energy management platform providing real-time data and analytics. His leadership has been critical in positioning Albuquerque as a national leader in municipal sustainability and climate action.

Beyond his work with the City, Saif serves on the Board of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) New Mexico, where he contributes to advancing green building practices, sustainable community development, and climate resilience strategies statewide.