District Cooling: A Strategic Solution to Climate Challenges and for the Cities of the Future

 Climate change is the most pressing issue of our time, and the world is at a critical juncture. In 2024, global temperatures reached their highest level on record; approximately 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels. This rise is the result of more than a century of burning fossil fuels such as oil and gas, coupled with the inequitable and unsustainable use of energy and land. 

The consequences are evident in the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, with severe impacts on both nature and people worldwide. According to the Emergency Events Database (EM-DAT), 2024 saw 393 major climate-related disasters across the globe, causing economic losses of more than USD 242.95 billion, claiming 16,753 lives, and affecting over 167 million people.

Recent scientific assessments from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) confirm that human activity is entirely responsible for the overall warming observed over the past 200 years. Greenhouse gas emissions from human activities are driving temperature increases at a pace unprecedented in at least two millennia. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) projects an 80% probability that at least one year between 2025 and 2029 will surpass 2024 as the warmest year on record. The report also indicates a 70% likelihood that the average global temperature over this five-year period will exceed 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

The Middle East has recently faced mounting challenges from extreme heat and the rising demand for cooling solutions. District cooling has emerged as a cost-effective response, delivering multiple benefits by reducing electricity consumption and annual CO2 emissions significantly. It also has the potential to integrate renewable energy sources. advancing sustainability goals.

In light of accelerating climate change, there is an urgent need to adopt efficient cooling systems and reduce dependence on conventional systems for air conditioning, a major driver of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. District cooling is a strategic solution, particularly in warmer climates, offering more sustainable alternative for space cooling, consuming up to 50% less energy than conventional systems and significantly cutting carbon emissions. Its adoption supports national and regional sustainability targets , aligning with The UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy. The UAE aims to position itself as a global model in advancing low-carbon, innovative solutions that respond to climate challenges, ensure resilience in meeting future demand, and safeguard the environment for generations to come.

District cooling is an innovative, reliable, and energy-efficient solution. Unlike conventional air conditioning systems designed for individual buildings, a single district cooling plant can serve thousands of customers across multiple buildings. These plants also have a considerably longer lifespan (typically 30 to 40 years), compared to a maximum of 15 years for traditional systems. In addition to meeting the cooling requirements of all applications, district cooling delivers greater efficiency while reducing both operating and maintenance costs. District cooling also adds value to buildings by freeing up significant space while reducing vibration and noise problems. 

Furthermore, the global district cooling market is estimated at approximately USD 26.79 billion in 2024 and is projected to rise to USD 28.35 billion in 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.87% through 2032. This expansion is fueled by growing demand for sustainable cooling solutions in cities and urban areas, particularly amid the record-breaking heatwaves witnessed worldwide in 2024 and 2025. Against this backdrop, Empower has emerged as a key player in advancing the transition to energy-efficient cooling solutions.