In the global landscape of building science and sustainable technology, few organizations carry as much weight as ASHRAE. At the local level, this global mission is translated into regional excellence by the ASHRAE Hellenic Chapter. As I step into the presidency for the 2025–2026 society year, I am honored to lead our chapter in reinforcing its commitment to innovation, decarbonization, and technical education.
ASHRAE: A Global Foundation for Sustainability
Founded in 1894, ASHRAE has grown into an international scientific society with tens of thousands of members across more than 130 countries. The core mission I uphold is to advance the arts and sciences of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration to serve humanity and promote a sustainable world. ASHRAE remains the primary provider of industry standards and technical research, offering the “gold standard” for engineers and architects worldwide—from ensuring indoor air quality to pioneering energy-efficient building design.
The ASHRAE Hellenic Chapter: Bridging Global Knowledge
The ASHRAE Hellenic Chapter was officially chartered in 1999 and established as a non-profit organization in Athens. My primary goal within this framework is the “transportation of knowledge”—bringing cutting-edge global technology to the Greek technical community. We have led the way in decarbonization by hosting the first ASHRAE International Decarbonization Conference, and we continue to host pivotal events like the annual “ENERGY in BUILDINGS” conference. We serve as a vital hub for contractors, manufacturers, and researchers, effectively bridging the gap between academic research and market needs.
My Path and Presidency
My journey to this presidency has been built on over 20 years of expertise in the design and construction of energy-saving systems. I hold a BSc in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA from the University of East London, and I currently serve as the Business Development Manager at ESCO Partners SA. Throughout my career, I have specialized in innovative, cost-efficient energy systems that prioritize long-term sustainability.
Before taking on the role of President, I served as the Student Activities Chair, where I dedicated my time to nurturing the next generation of Greek engineers. I have always believed that the future of our industry depends on mentorship and the transfer of practical experience to young professionals.
During my term, I am prioritizing the sustainable transition by accelerating the adoption of green technologies in Greek commercial and industrial applications. I am also focusing on building intelligence, specifically the integration of Artificial Intelligence and digital twins into building management systems. Furthermore, I have expanded initiatives like the Engineering Career Day to ensure our members have direct access to top-tier career opportunities.
My main principle has always been a strong attention to detail. I work to ensure that creative, sustainable ideas are executed accurately to provide high-quality services to the community and the engineering profession.
Also working closely with Board of Governors and Officers of the Hellenic chapter we will ensure the safe transfer of technical knowledge withing main axis and social priorities of ASHRAE.
Furthermore through strong cooperations with main engineering and building environment societies like the Technical Chamber of Greece, the Hellenic Maintenance Society, the Unions of Heating and Photovoltaic Companies and also with public authorities like the Municipality of Athens and the Greek Navy we are expanding this knowledge to a broader group of people.
The collaboration between ASHRAE’s global standards and our chapter’s local expertise ensures that Greece remains at the forefront of the green transition. I am committed to not only preserving our legacy of technical excellence but also actively shaping a more resilient, energy-efficient, and healthier future for the built environment.
Chrysostomos I. Bouras