Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) has achieved a Guinness World Record for the highest district cooling capacity globally, cementing Dubai's standing as a world leader in sustainable urban infrastructure. The record was certified at 241,272 Refrigeration Tons (RT) for Empower's Business Bay District Cooling project.
Guinness Certificate Presented at WETEX 2024
The official record was presented at Empower's booth during the second day of the WETEX 2024 exhibition. H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, received the Guinness World Records certificate from an official representative in the presence of prominent industry figures and stakeholders.
Bin Shafar stated: "We are delighted that we have made it to the Guinness World Records list for having the highest cooling capacity for a district cooling system. This record, achieving a connected capacity of 241,272 Refrigeration Tons (RT), directly reflects our intention to design and deliver valuable and sustainable assets that have a positive impact on the environment and the returns on investment in the long term."
He added that the achievement further solidifies Dubai's position as a global leader in environmental preservation and resource sustainability.
Business Bay Project: One of the World's Largest District Cooling Systems
The Business Bay district cooling project is among the largest district energy projects in the world. Its ultimate planned capacity stands at 451,540 RT, making it a landmark in global cooling infrastructure.
At present, four of the nine planned district cooling plants are operational, serving 188 multi-use buildings and skyscrapers across Business Bay, Sheikh Zayed Road, and the Dubai Water Canal — all connected through a single distribution pipeline network spanning 52.4 kilometres.
Sustainability at the Core
The project integrates cutting-edge Thermal Energy Storage (TES) technology to optimise cooling efficiency and manage peak demand, alongside treated sewage effluent (TSE) in operations to support resource conservation. These measures form part of Empower's long-term sustainability agenda and align with Dubai's broader green city ambitions.
Empower's record-breaking achievement underscores the UAE's commitment to pioneering innovative, environmentally responsible urban solutions on a global scale.
