The race to cool our planet is on, and district cooling is emerging as a powerful weapon. But how do we accelerate its adoption globally? That's the question at the heart of a recent strategic meeting between Empower, a leading district cooling provider, and the UNEP's Cool Coalition team during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2026.
H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower and a prominent figure in the district cooling industry, met with Lily Riahi, Head of the Cool Coalition, to discuss concrete ways to ramp up the global adoption of sustainable cooling solutions. This meeting wasn't just a handshake; it was a deep dive into the future of cooling, addressing everything from technical support and policy advisory to innovative business models.
And this is the part most people miss: district cooling isn't just about comfort; it's a crucial tool in the fight against climate change, offering a more efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional cooling methods.
The discussions were wide-ranging, covering:
Strengthening global cooperation: How can Empower and the Cool Coalition work together to promote district cooling as a viable solution worldwide?
Supporting UNEP initiatives: Empower pledged its support for various UNEP events and programs, recognizing the importance of collective action.
Raising awareness and influencing policy: How can we educate policymakers and the public about the benefits of sustainable cooling and advocate for its integration into national and regional energy strategies?
Technical expertise sharing: Empower offered its expertise in establishing district cooling systems, conducting feasibility studies, training professionals, and providing operational guidance.
Sustainable business models: The conversation delved into the 'utility-service' model and Empower's integrated approach, which encompasses the entire lifecycle of a district cooling system, from design to customer service.
These efforts are closely aligned with the Cool Coalition's Global Cooling Pledge, launched at COP28 in the UAE, which has already garnered support from 72 countries and over 80 partners in just 18 months. The meeting focused on accelerating the pledge's implementation through:
- International mechanisms: Promoting the use of EPIC contracts for cooling facilities and expanding the 'cooling as a service' concept.
- Partnerships for impact: Bin Shafar emphasized the crucial role of international collaboration in driving the adoption of sustainable cooling solutions, highlighting district cooling's potential to contribute to global Net Zero goals.
But here's where it gets controversial: While district cooling offers significant environmental benefits, its initial investment costs can be high. How can we make this technology more accessible to developing countries? Should governments provide subsidies or incentives to encourage adoption?
Bin Shafar expressed Empower's commitment to leading the charge, leveraging Dubai and the UAE's position as global leaders in sustainable district cooling. Empower's active participation in international events, technical tours, and knowledge-sharing initiatives demonstrates its dedication to advancing the sector.
What do you think? Is district cooling the future of sustainable cooling? How can we overcome the barriers to its widespread adoption? Let us know in the comments below!
This press release highlights a crucial step towards a cooler, more sustainable future. The collaboration between Empower and the Cool Coalition has the potential to accelerate the global transition to efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions, but it also raises important questions about accessibility and equity. The conversation is just beginning, and your voice matters.
