Ahmed Bin Shafar, the CEO of Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower), the largest provider of district cooling services globally, served as the keynote speaker at the opening session of the International District Energy Association (IDEA 2025) conference in the United States. The session, titled “Global Leaders in the District Cooling Industry,” brought together top industry executives, decision-makers, and experts from around the world.
Essential Role
During the session, Bin Shafar emphasized the crucial role that district cooling systems play in achieving sustainable development goals, enhancing energy efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions. He stated that district cooling has evolved from being a choice to a strategic necessity for countries aiming to expedite their transition to a low-carbon and environmentally and economically efficient future.
He also shared the success story of Empower in Dubai, noting that the organization started its journey in a city focused on boosting energy efficiency and has grown to become the world’s largest district cooling provider. This exceptional growth was attributed to a long-term strategic vision, consistent government support, and investment in modern infrastructure and technologies, enabling Empower to cover a significant number of major areas and vital projects in Dubai, providing sustainable and efficient cooling services to millions of residents and visitors.
Urban Development
Bin Shafar remarked, “District cooling is a fundamental pillar of sustainable urban development, as it reduces electricity demand and promotes reliance on clean energy sources. This positively impacts the national economy, environment, and quality of life in cities.” He called for the establishment of international legislation that encourages the adoption of district cooling systems in various countries, stressing that the significant benefits of this technology, in terms of operational efficiency, cost reduction, and emission decreases, necessitate collaboration between the public and private sectors to develop regulatory and legislative frameworks that support this shift.
Bin Shafar’s prominent presence reinforces Empower’s leading position globally and its pivotal role in advancing the district cooling sector, showcasing the successful Emirati experience on international platforms and reflecting the nation’s commitment to a sustainable environmental vision and an innovation-driven economy.