During the 117th International District Energy Association (IDEA) Conference and Exhibition 2026, a significant milestone was reached for the global sustainable energy sector.
His Excellency Ahmad Bin Shafar, the Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower) participated in a pivotal international agreement. As a member of the IDEA Board of Directors, Bin Shafar joined global industry leaders and representatives from various nations and international organisations to sign a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement is designed to accelerate the deployment of district cooling systems worldwide.
The strategic MoU arrives at a critical juncture for climate action. Its primary objective is to strengthen international cooperation and hasten the widespread adoption of district cooling systems. These systems are increasingly acknowledged as a proven, practical solution to pressing environmental challenges. By implementing district cooling, cities can substantially improve energy efficiency, enhance energy security, support local economies, and drastically reduce carbon emissions.
To achieve these ambitious goals, the MoU emphasises the necessity of robust international collaboration. The signatories have committed to facilitating the active exchange of industry expertise and promoting technological innovation across borders. Furthermore, the agreement outlines critical support for the development of modern policies and regulatory frameworks. Establishing these foundations is essential to help accelerate the seamless implementation of district cooling systems in cities around the globe. Ultimately, the document reflects a shared commitment among signatories to advance the transition towards energy systems that are highly sustainable and resilient.
This strategic alliance aligns perfectly with the overarching objectives of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. It also serves as a direct reflection of the parties' mutual dedication to advancing the critical climate and sustainability goals set forth by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. For Empower, the signing of this MoU underscores the organisation's rapidly growing role in supporting major international initiatives. The company is actively working to accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy through the cultivation of strategic partnerships, the open exchange of vital knowledge, and enhanced collaboration among key stakeholders operating across the sustainable energy sector. Furthermore, Empower's proactive participation in this global event reinforces its position as a leading global player in the district cooling industry and an active contributor to shaping the future of sustainable urban energy systems.
Highlighting the importance of this global collaboration, H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar stated:
“This agreement reflects a growing international commitment to strengthening cooperation and knowledge exchange to accelerate the development and wider adoption of district cooling systems as a practical and effective solution for advancing sustainability, improving energy efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions. At Empower, we are proud to represent the UAE in this important initiative, which reflects the country's leading position in supporting climate solutions and advancing the transition to a low-carbon economy, guided by our visionary leadership and its steadfast commitment to sustainability, innovation, and strategic partnerships. We believe that district cooling and district energy play a pivotal role in building more efficient, resilient, and future-ready cities, and that expanding international cooperation will help accelerate the transition to more sustainable urban energy systems, while supporting local economic growth and strengthening communities' resilience to the challenges of climate change,” said H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar.
Empower’s prominent role at the event extended beyond the MoU signing. The company participated as a Diamond Sponsor of the IDEA Conference and Exhibition 2026, which was meticulously organised under the central theme of ‘Connecting Networks’. The international conference took place from 23 to 26 June 2026 in Ottawa, Canada. Empower's participation featured several key engagements that cemented its industry leadership. This included Bin Shafar's active participation in high-level keynote sessions, as well as a comprehensive series of strategic meetings with senior government officials and respected industry experts. These discussions were designed to explore new opportunities to further strengthen international cooperation and facilitate the exchange of best practices within the district cooling industry.
Empower signs global MoU to advance district cooling
As a member of the IDEA Board of Directors, Bin Shafar joined global industry leaders and representatives from various nations and international organisations to sign a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
