Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower) has received LEED Gold certification for its Jumeirah Beach Hills (JBH) District Cooling Plant in Dubai from the U.S. Green Building Council. This certification acknowledges the plant's adherence to global standards for energy efficiency, sustainability, and environmental design. The JBH plant, operational since December 2024, has a production capacity of 48,000 refrigeration tons and utilizes advanced technologies to enhance energy and water efficiency. Empower's plant serves key developments in the Jumeirah area and plans to expand its services further. This achievement aligns with the UAE's vision for sustainability and reflects Empower's commitment to integrating high sustainability standards in its operations.

As climate change intensifies, cities worldwide are facing more frequent and severe heat waves, increasing the demand for cooling solutions. Europe, particularly affected by rising temperatures, witnessed extreme heat in the summer of 2026, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in several countries. Despite the growing need, air conditioning use in Europe remains low, with only about 20% of households owning units. This situation highlights the urgency for efficient cooling solutions that do not overburden electricity grids or deplete resources. The adoption of individual air conditioning systems could strain electricity networks and require more investment in infrastructure, as seen by the near doubling of household energy consumption for cooling in the EU between 2018 and 2024. In contrast, Gulf cities, accustomed to high temperatures, have developed large-scale district cooling systems. These systems produce chilled water at central plants and distribute it through insulated networks to multiple buildings, offering a more efficient and sustainable cooling method. District cooling can save up to 50% in electricity compared to traditional systems, using about 0.9 to 1 kilowatt of electricity per ton of refrigeration.

Empower, the world's largest district cooling services provider, highlighted its commitment to empowering Emirati women on Emirati Women's Day, celebrated under the theme “We Will Emerge Stronger and Better.” The company emphasizes its dedication to fostering a supportive work environment that offers professional development and leadership opportunities, aligning with the UAE's vision to invest in national talent. By the end of 2025, Emirati women made up 61% of Empower's female workforce, playing a significant role in the company's growth. Empower is committed to providing training and development programs to enhance skills and promote innovation, preparing women for leadership roles and decision-making positions. CEO Ahmad Bin Shafar praised the achievements of Emirati women and their contributions to the nation's development.

Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower), the largest district cooling services provider globally, is expanding its operations with a new district cooling plant in Al Sufouh 2, Dubai, with a capacity of 23,400 refrigeration tons. This project aligns with Empower's strategy to support Dubai's urban growth and meet the rising demand for sustainable cooling services. Construction has begun, with completion expected in the third quarter of 2027, under Empower’s supervision. The plant will serve various mixed-use buildings, including the "Innovation Hub," and will use advanced technologies like thermal energy storage and treated sewage effluent to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. This initiative supports Dubai’s sustainable urban development and the UAE's climate neutrality goals, contributing to the expansion of sustainable infrastructure and aligning with the vision of Dubai as a model for smart and sustainable cities.

Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower), the largest provider of district cooling services globally, has entered into an agreement with Binghatti Developers to supply cooling services to the 'Mercedes-Benz Places | Binghatti City' project in Meydan, Dubai, with a total capacity of 37,000 refrigeration tons. This agreement, signed by Empower CEO Ahmad Bin Shafar and Binghatti Holding Chairman Muhammad Binghatti, is a significant step in Empower's expansion strategy, reflecting its commitment to supporting major real estate developments in Dubai. The deal highlights developers' trust in Empower's sustainable cooling solutions, which contribute to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing resource efficiency. It also underscores Empower's strong market position and ability to expand through innovative and modern operational models. The 'Mercedes-Benz Places | Binghatti City' project is a major development in Dubai's real estate sector, featuring 12 architecturally integrated towers and offering a premium living experience inspired by Mercedes-Benz's design language. The project aims to set a new standard in urban living, supporting Dubai's long-term development and sustainability goals.

Empower, the world's largest district cooling services provider, won two Gold Awards at the IDEA Conference 2026 in Canada for "Total Number of Buildings Committed" and "Total Building Area Committed" outside North America. This achievement highlights Empower's leadership in the district cooling sector and supports Dubai and the UAE's reputation for sustainable energy solutions. Empower has won these awards twelve times since 2005 and has received over 20 IDEA awards in total. CEO Ahmad Bin Shafar stated that these awards reflect Empower's commitment to sustainable and innovative cooling solutions, supporting Dubai's urban development and the UAE's net-zero ambitions.

Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower), participated in the 117th International District Energy Association Conference and Exhibition 2026, where he signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global representatives. The MoU aims to enhance international cooperation in promoting district cooling systems to improve energy efficiency, boost energy security, support local economies, and reduce carbon emissions. It emphasizes the exchange of expertise, innovation, and the development of supportive policies to expand district cooling adoption worldwide. The agreement aligns with the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change's sustainability goals. Empower's involvement highlights its leadership in the district cooling sector and its commitment to advancing sustainable urban energy systems.

Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower), spoke at the IDEA 2026 Conference in Canada, highlighting the UAE's leadership in district cooling. He discussed Empower's achievements as the world's largest provider in the sector, attributing success to strategic vision, government support, and investment in advanced technologies. Bin Shafar emphasized district cooling's role in sustainable urban development, enhancing energy efficiency, reducing emissions, and addressing climate change challenges. He called for collaboration among stakeholders to promote sustainable cooling solutions and foster innovation for resilient cities. The UAE and Dubai are portrayed as global models in adopting sustainable practices and advancing the green economy.

Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower), has been appointed as a full member of the International District Energy Association (IDEA) Board of Directors for a three-year term until 2029. This appointment, announced at the 117th IDEA Annual Conference in Ottawa, marks the renewal of Bin Shafar's role following his tenure as a Board Member Emeritus. He is the first Emirati and Arab to hold this position, having initially joined the board in 2013. The IDEA, a U.S.-based non-profit organization with over 2,500 members, aims to advance district cooling and heating systems globally. Bin Shafar has actively contributed to the sector's development and highlighted the UAE's leadership in district cooling. Empower is participating in the conference as a Diamond Sponsor for the third year.

Empower, the world's largest district cooling services provider, has announced its Diamond Sponsorship of the International District Energy Association (IDEA) conferences and exhibitions for 2026. This marks the third consecutive year of Empower's sponsorship, highlighting its leadership in the global district cooling sector and its role in promoting industry advancement and collaboration. The IDEA events bring together leaders and innovators from the utility and energy sectors to explore solutions in district cooling, heating, and sustainable energy infrastructure. These events serve as a global forum for sharing best practices and showcasing innovations that enhance the resilience and sustainability of district cooling systems worldwide. Empower's continued participation underscores the UAE's leadership in sustainable urban development and commitment to global knowledge sharing. Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, emphasized the company's dedication to supporting the global development of the district cooling sector and fostering innovation and collaboration for more sustainable cities.