The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) has launched the Abu Dhabi Cooling Load Manual (CLM) as part of efforts to support the Energy and Water Efficiency Strategy 2030 and enhance energy efficiency in building cooling systems.
Air conditioning systems account for around 60–70 percent of electricity consumption in buildings in the UAE, with many systems currently oversized by an estimated 25–35 percent, according to the DoE.
The DoE stated that correct sizing of cooling systems could reduce installed air conditioning costs by up to 35 percent, equivalent to around $152.5 million (AED560 million) annually across new buildings in Abu Dhabi.
For residential villas, this could result in savings of up to $15,259 (AED56,000) in equipment costs, along with lower connection charges and electricity bill reductions of up to 25 per cent.
Technical guidance for cooling system design
The Cooling Load Manual provides guidance on calculating cooling requirements and selecting appropriately sized equipment. It is intended primarily for new developments but can also be applied to retrofit projects and system reviews in existing buildings.
The manual improves design accuracy, reduces overdesign, and lowers both capital and operational costs. It also supports improved occupant comfort and extends equipment lifespan.
It aligns with Abu Dhabi building codes and international standards, including ASHRAE and CIBSE, and provides guidance to avoid common design issues such as excessive safety margins, unrealistic assumptions, and limited consideration of load diversity.
The manual also highlights the role of early design decisions such as building orientation, shading, zoning, and heat gain assessment in reducing cooling demand.
Cooling Load Verification Tool
To support implementation, the DoE has introduced a Cooling Load Verification Tool (CLVT). The tool allows developers, designers, and government entities to compare cooling calculations against the manual’s benchmarks, identify potential overdesign, and estimate cost savings.
His Excellency Eng. Ahmed Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, stated that the initiative forms part of an integrated approach to improving resource efficiency and strengthening sustainable development in the emirate.
Al Rumaithi added that the manual supports efforts to improve energy demand management, optimize resource use, and enhance efficiency in the construction and urban development sectors.
His Excellency Abdulaziz Mohammed Alobaidli, Director General of Regulatory Affairs at the Department of Energy, emphasized that the manual will contribute to improving energy efficiency in buildings and supporting long-term sustainability objectives.
The Cooling Load Manual will be available on the DoE website. It supports the UAE Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and aligns with Abu Dhabi’s Climate Change Strategy.
