The Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) has signed a Global Co-operation Agreement with the partners of the United Nations Environment Programme, District Energy in Cities, at a summit in Scottsdale, US.

The 108th Annual Conference & Tradeshow of International District Energy Association (Idea) was held from June 26 to 29, reported Wam, the Emirates official news agency.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) aims to enhance the conservational impact and development of district cooling in the UAE.

Earlier this year, Ahmad bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, was chosen by the United Nations Environment Programme to become the special advisor on district cooling within its "Global District Energy in Cities" initiative.

The agreement defines common objectives and a collaborative framework intended to increase deployment of district energy in respective countries around the globe. The goal is to increase energy efficiency, reduce emissions, strengthen local and regional economies, and deliver the social and environmental benefits of efficient district energy systems,” Bin Shafar said.

"At Empower, we’ve always been committed to accelerating the deployment of district energy. The signing of the Global Co-operation Agreement is a testament to support Dubai’s Integrated Energy Strategy directed by Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, to build a green economy in the UAE and transform Dubai into a global centre for clean energy and green economy.

"While the agreement will facilitate international collaboration and cross-border exchange, it will also help us increase energy efficiency, enhance energy security, strengthen the local economy and reduce harmful emissions. In addition, it will also help educate and inform governments and citizens on the economic, environmental and energy-efficiency advantages of district energy systems in order to foster adoption of policies and regulations favourable for expansion and deployment," he added.

In effect, until 60 months from the date of execution, the Global Co-operation Agreement brings together countries such as Canada, China, Colombia, Denmark, Germany, Japan, Singapore, the UAE, the UK, and the US to jointly share efforts to advance the district energy industry and promote sustainable and resilient technologies.

In addition, the MoU will significantly enhance the pre-existing mutual co-operation between several countries and allow for the achievement of sustainability and resiliency goals at a larger scale than previously possible. Furthermore, the countries will jointly develop, promote and disseminate operational best practices and standardised technical guidelines to support continued industry growth while ensuring reliable, efficient and sustainable operations.

Empower is a member of the board of directors of Idea.