Dubai International Airport has chosen Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) as its exclusive district cooling services provider. The agreement grants Empower the rights to operate and manage the airport’s district cooling systems. The announcement was made in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Airports, showcasing the significance of the partnership.
Empower will oversee the operation of five district cooling plants at Dubai International Airport, boasting a combined capacity of 110,000 refrigeration tons (RT) valued at AED 1.1B. These plants will be seamlessly integrated into Empower’s existing infrastructure, aligning with the terms of the acquisition deal finalized in late 2021, according to WAM.
By acquiring the district cooling assets from Dubai Aviation City Corporation (DACC), Empower expands its portfolio and reinforces its position as the world’s largest district cooling services provider. Empower has emphasized the professionalism, flexibility, and efficiency displayed throughout the successful acquisition process.
Empower, the leading district cooling services provider, has significantly expanded its portfolio by adding Dubai International Airport to its prestigious list of projects. Alongside prominent developments like Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai World Trade Centre, and Palm Jumeirah, Empower now manages the district cooling systems of Dubai’s busiest airport.
The acquisition of the rights from Dubai Aviation City Corporation (DACC) was officially completed in a ceremony attended by Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of Empower and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), as well as key representatives from both parties.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum emphasized the pivotal role of strategic partnerships between the government and private sectors in Dubai’s success. He reiterated the commitment to fostering these collaborations to drive economic growth and prosperity in the emirate.
Al Tayer highlighted the importance of cooperation and integration between the government and private sectors in achieving Dubai’s vision and establishing it as a global model. He acknowledged Empower’s role in delivering environmentally friendly district cooling services, promoting resource conservation, environmental protection, and climate resilience.
Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of DACC and Dubai South, expressed confidence in the partnership between the public and private sectors, considering it an exemplary initiative by the Dubai government. He expressed his belief in Empower’s ability to deliver world-class district cooling services aligned with the exceptional customer experience offered by Dubai Airports.
Ahmad bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, noted that the inclusion of Dubai International Airport in their portfolio marks a significant milestone in their leadership within the district cooling industry. He proudly highlighted Empower’s commitment to serving the world’s largest airport in terms of passenger numbers, delivering high-quality cooling services with a capacity of 110,000 refrigeration tons—equivalent to 11 times the consumption of the iconic Burj Khalifa.