Dubai’s district cooling boom drives Empower to record-breaking growth

Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) has recorded extraordinary growth in Dubai, with its connected district cooling capacity increasing 315 times since its establishment, underscoring the emirate’s rapid urban expansion and push for sustainable infrastructure.

Empower, the world’s largest district cooling services provider, said its connected capacity has grown from around 5,400 refrigeration tonnes in 2004 to 1.7 million refrigeration tonnes by the end of 2025. The expansion reflects two decades of sustained investment, infrastructure development and rising demand for energy-efficient cooling solutions across residential, commercial and mixed-use developments in Dubai.

Dubai’s district cooling capacity surges

The company said the milestone highlights the success of district cooling as a sustainable alternative to conventional air-conditioning systems, particularly as Dubai continues to deliver large-scale urban projects and high-density developments. District cooling plays a key role in reducing electricity consumption and carbon emissions, aligning with Dubai’s long-term sustainability and Net Zero ambitions.

Among Empower’s flagship developments is the Business Bay district cooling project, recognised as the largest of its kind globally. The project holds two Guinness World Records, including the Highest Capacity District Cooling Plant with a connected capacity of 276,545 refrigeration tonnes, and the Largest Cooling Plant Coverage by number of buildings, currently serving 201 properties spanning residential, commercial and hospitality uses.

Commenting on the achievement, Ahmad Bin Shafar, Chief Executive Officer of Empower, said: “Empower’s growth in cooling capacity since its inception demonstrates the strong confidence that Dubai and its real estate developers place in district cooling solutions, and underscores our commitment to supporting the sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives championed by our leadership.

“We have expanded from 5,400 RT in 2004 to 1.7 million RT by the end of 2025; an achievement we are proud of, and one that reflects the success of our strategy centred on innovation, strategic expansion, and investment in advanced technologies.”

He added that district cooling is one of the most effective solutions for reducing electricity demand compared with traditional cooling systems and will remain central to Empower’s future expansion plans in line with Dubai’s development vision.

Empower currently provides district cooling services to a wide range of major developments across Dubai, including Dubai International Airport, Dubai International Financial Centre, Business Bay, Dubai Healthcare City, Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Bluewaters, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Design District and Dubailand Residential Complex, among others.

Established in 2003, Empower began operations with a single cooling plant before steadily expanding its network in response to growing demand for efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions. The company said its continued investment in infrastructure and operational efficiency supports national sustainability goals and reinforces Dubai’s position as a global leader in smart and sustainable urban development.