Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower), the world’s largest district cooling services provider, has reported AED 540 million in revenue for Q1 2025, reflecting a modest increase of 0.4% compared to the same period in 2024. The company also achieved an EBITDA of AED 297 million, and a pre-tax net profit of AED 159 million, which contributed to a net profit after tax of AED 145 million for the quarter ending March 31, 2025.
Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, commented:
“The sustainable growth during the first quarter of this year is a direct result of our strategic expansion in key projects, combined with Empower’s expertise in maximising the value of its growing footprint in the district cooling market. Our continued success in adding real estate projects to our portfolio is driving increased demand for our services, which have become the preferred choice for building owners and end-users.”
Strategic Partnerships and Growing Capacity Fuel Empower’s Expansion
During the first quarter, Empower added 46 new contracts, contributing an additional 43,000 refrigeration tons (RT) to its total contracted capacity, which now exceeds 1.81 million RT. The company’s connected capacity also grew, surpassing 1.58 million RT, following the addition of more than 15,000 RT during the quarter.
Empower’s ongoing expansion includes high-profile projects like a strategic partnership with Wasl Group to provide district cooling for the The Island Resort project, which will have a cooling capacity of 23,853 RT. The service delivery is set to begin in Q1 2028. Furthermore, Empower signed an agreement with Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) to supply cooling services to the Uptown Dubai development, with a capacity of 24,675 RT. Another significant project includes the Palm Gateway on Palm Jumeirah, with a cooling capacity of 9,470 RT, scheduled to begin service in Q2 2026.
Technology and Customer Engagement Boost Operational Efficiency
Empower’s commitment to operational excellence extends to its customer engagement and digital initiatives. The company reported an 22% increase in verified online registrations from both the public and private sectors compared to Q1 2024. The company also processed 224,886 bill payment transactions through online platforms, marking a 7% increase over the previous year.
Additionally, Empower approved 11,116 No-Objection Certificate (NOC) requests in Q1 2025, reflecting an 8% year-over-year increase. These efforts align with Empower’s strategic goals to streamline operations and improve customer service.
Sustainability, Recognition, and Industry Engagement Highlight Empower’s Leadership
Empower’s growth is not limited to financial performance; the company is also positioning itself as a leader in sustainability. In March 2025, Empower’s Annual General Meeting approved a cash dividend of AED 437.5 million, or 43.75% of the company’s paid-up capital, underscoring its commitment to delivering value to shareholders.
Ahmad Bin Shafar was also recognised in Arabian Business’s “Dubai 100” list, which celebrates influential figures shaping Dubai’s future. His recognition highlights Empower’s role in advancing sustainability and establishing Dubai as a global leader in innovation and excellence.
At the IDEA Campus Energy 2025 Conference held in Boston, Empower participated alongside more than 1,000 industry leaders to discuss advancements in district cooling. On the sidelines, Bin Shafar met with Rob Thornton, President and CEO of the International District Energy Association (IDEA), to discuss preparations for Dubai’s hosting of the District Cooling Conference 2025.
