Abu dhabi: Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower and a prominent figure in the district cooling sector, reinforced Empower's partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) during a strategic meeting with the Cool Coalition team at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2026.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting involved discussions between Bin Shafar and Lily Riahi, Head and Global Coordinator of UNEP's Cool Coalition, focusing on enhancing global cooperation in district cooling. Key topics included supporting UNEP's events and initiatives, promoting awareness of sustainable cooling solutions, and advising on national and state-level policies for efficient cooling.
The discussions also covered technical collaboration, such as expertise sharing for district cooling systems in cities, feasibility assessments, training, information exchange, and operational guidance. Both parties explored sustainable business models like the 'utility-service' model and Empower's comprehensive service model, which includes design, operation, and customer service.
The meeting aligned with the Cool Coalition's Global Cooling Pledge, initiated at the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference-COP28 in the UAE. They discussed expanding sustainable cooling solutions in the 72 countries and over 80 partners committed to the pledge, focusing on international mechanisms like EPIC contracts and the 'cooling as a service' concept.
Bin Shafar emphasized the role of international partnerships in promoting sustainable cooling solutions, highlighting district cooling's effectiveness in addressing climate change and achieving Net Zero. He noted that Empower's efforts are in line with national plans for energy efficiency and a carbon-free future, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals and climate action.
Empower has been active in global district cooling initiatives, participating in international events, conferences, and seminars to promote sustainable solutions. These efforts support the Cool Coalition's objectives to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and advance global sustainability goals.