Technology

Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower), the world’s largest district cooling services provider, hosted a technical study tour on district cooling in Dubai organized by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP). The tour, held on the 15th and 17th of July, welcomed high-level delegates from the governments of Tunisia, Morocco, and the State Government of Punjab, Pakistan, with funding support from the Government of Italy.

The study tour was part of the UNEP-led Cool Coalition initiative and featured workshops, training, and discussion sessions on district cooling in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Key participants included UNEP representatives, Empower’s management team led by CEO His Excellency Ahmad bin Shafar, Rob Thornton, President and CEO of the International District Energy Association (IDEA), and representatives from the COP28 UAE Presidency team. The sessions addressed industry challenges, opportunities, and innovative solutions to transform the sector.

A field tour of Empower's district cooling plant in Dubai's Business Bay area showcased the practical operations of district cooling plants and the integration of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.

HE Ahmad bin Shafar emphasized the UAE's commitment to sharing expertise for global betterment, stating, "The initiative embodies one of the UAE's most prominent values, and it translates Dubai's keenness to share its expertise with friendly countries for the world’s better future."

Lily Riahi, Program Manager at UNEP and Global Lead of the Cool Coalition, highlighted the importance of district cooling: "District cooling is a critical technology for delivering affordable, efficient, and renewable cooling and for the faster phasedown of climate-warming refrigerants. International exchanges like the one organized in Dubai by Empower will support countries such as Morocco and Tunisia in meeting their commitments under the Global Cooling Pledge at COP28 in UAE."

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