Dubai: Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower) has once again underscored its crucial contribution to the sustainable growth of Dubai by enhancing its district cooling facilities and underground pipeline infrastructure in key areas across the emirate.
The firm noted that its ongoing expansion of infrastructure is vital in accommodating a growing population and the swift urbanization happening in Dubai, while simultaneously reducing electricity use and alleviating pressure on existing power networks. As of the end of 2025, Empower operates over 430 kilometers of underground pipelines alongside 90 district cooling plants throughout Dubai.
The importance of district cooling is becoming more recognized globally as governments and city planners seek energy-efficient alternatives to manage rising temperatures, urban growth, and increasing electricity demands. District cooling systems also combat urban heat island effects and promote environmental sustainability.
During a recent webinar hosted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Cool Coalition with the theme “District Cooling as Urban Energy Infrastructure,” H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, emphasized that Dubai has emerged as a global model for advanced district cooling infrastructure, owing to its dedicated approach towards sustainability and efficiency.
Bin Shafar mentioned that Empower remains committed to investing in the expansion of its plants and networks through a scalable development strategy that aligns with Dubai’s rapid growth while ensuring dependable and sustainable cooling services. He highlighted that the company has effectively established district cooling as a reliable utility service that bolsters Dubai's sustainability objectives.
Since 2004, Empower’s connected cooling capacity has skyrocketed from 5,400 refrigeration tons (RT) to approximately 1.7 million RT today, cementing its status as the world’s largest provider of district cooling services.
Recently, the company unveiled various new projects throughout Dubai. Empower awarded the design contract for its fifth district cooling plant in Business Bay, which is set to feature a cooling capacity of around 44,000 RT upon completion.
In the first quarter of 2026, Empower increased its total connected capacity by 33,500 RT and extended its customer base to nearly 160,000 across 1,776 buildings.
In 2025, the firm launched operations at the Deira Waterfront district cooling plant, achieving a total capacity of 39,000 RT, serving more than 46 buildings. Additionally, a new cooling plant in Al Sufouh 2 is in progress, with planned capacity set at 23,400 RT.
Moreover, construction continues on Empower’s second cooling plant in Jumeirah Village, expected to deliver approximately 37,000 RT. The company also awarded the design contract for a new cooling plant in Dubai Science Park, which will cater to around 80 buildings with a total capacity of up to 47,000 RT.
These expansion initiatives by Empower enhance Dubai’s future preparedness by delivering dependable, adaptable, and sustainable cooling infrastructure that aligns with the emirate's energy efficiency ambitions and enhances its standing in the global district cooling landscape.
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