Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation(Empower), the world’s largest district cooling services provider, has commenced operations of its Deira Waterfront district cooling plant.
The Deira Waterfront district cooling plant has a total cooling capacity of 39,000 refrigeration tons (RT) and will provide district cooling services to more than 46 buildings within the Deira Waterfront area.
Empower confirmed that the Deira Waterfront district cooling plant was constructed in accordance with the highest international standards, aligned with sustainable green‑building principles and Dubai’s modern urban development.
The plant’s engineering design reflects the overall aesthetic character of the surrounding area and seamlessly complements the architectural identity of neighboring buildings, ensuring visual harmony and contextual relevance. This development is a key component of Empower’s broader expansion strategy aimed at effectively meeting the rapidly growing demand for district-cooling services in several key locations throughout Dubai. This growth is driven by the emirate’s continuous urban, commercial, and economic development, which increases the need for reliable and efficient cooling solutions.
The company remains committed to expanding its operations through targeted strategic investments that promote innovative and sustainable cooling technologies.
Empower also aims to diversify its extensive project portfolio across multiple sectors, where it currently commands more than 80 percent of Dubai’s district-cooling market share, reinforcing its position as the market leader and a pivotal player in the emirate’s sustainable infrastructure development.
Ahmad bin Shafar CEO – Empower
“The operation of the Deira Waterfront plant embodies the vision of our wise leadership, which has placed sustainability and resource efficiency at the core of Dubai’s urban and economic development. This milestone represents a key pillar in achieving the objectives of the UAE’s Net‑Zero 2050 Strategy and the Dubai Net‑Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, through an advanced district‑cooling infrastructure that integrates innovative, environmentally friendly technologies.”
HE Ahmad Bin Shafar highlighted that the project demonstrates Empower’s dedication to delivering highly efficient cooling solutions that align with Dubai’s vision of building smart, sustainable cities. He emphasized how this initiative enhances the quality of life and community prosperity while serving a prominent development in the historic heart of Deira. This reflects Empower’s commitment to balanced regional development and meeting the increasing demand for world-class cooling services with efficiency and reliability.
Bin Shafar also noted that Empower is continuously advancing its strategic investments to expand operations, modernize infrastructure, and enhance the skills of its technical teams. These efforts ensure Empower’s capacity to meet the growing demand for cooling services while providing sustainable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective solutions that support Dubai’s environmental and economic goals.
In 2018, Empower partnered with Ithra Dubai to provide sustainable district-cooling for the Deira Waterfront project, starting with a semi-permanent plant within eight months. In 2024, a contract was awarded to build a permanent plant to meet the growing cooling demand and support urban expansion.
The Deira Waterfront district cooling plant plant is now operational, strengthening Empower’s network and advancing Dubai’s energy efficiency and carbon reduction goals aligned with the SDGs and Net-Zero vision by 2050.
The Deira Waterfront project is one of Dubai’s most prominent and strategic developments, reflecting the emirate’s vision of creating integrated urban destinations that blend tradition with modernity. Featuring world‑class residential, commercial and tourism facilities, the project underscores Empower’s continued commitment to supporting major infrastructure developments in Dubai by providing innovative, environmentally friendly district‑cooling solutions.
