Ahmad Bin Shafar retains IDEA board seat for seventh term

DUBAI, UAE, 3 June 2025: Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower) announced through a Press Release that its CEO, H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar, has retained his position as Member Emeritus on the Board of Directors of the International District Energy Association (IDEA) for the seventh consecutive term.

According to Empower, the appointment reflects continued recognition of Bin Shafar’s contributions to the District Cooling industry both regionally and internationally. The company said his role facilitates the sharing of best practices from the UAE and helps reinforce the nation’s presence as a hub for sustainable cooling solutions.

Empower stated that Bin Shafar has maintained a longstanding partnership with IDEA, during which the sector has experienced notable transformation towards improved efficiency and sustainability. The company noted that his leadership has played a role in shaping policy, driving strategic discussions and supporting collaboration among global stakeholders.

Commenting on the announcement, Bin Shafar said: “It is an honour to continue serving the district cooling sector through this membership, which I consider an added responsibility to enhance our region’s role in shaping the future of energy efficiency. District cooling has become both an environmental and economic necessity, and my role within IDEA reflects our ongoing commitment to enriching communities through innovative and environmentally friendly cooling solutions.”

Empower highlighted that the announcement comes at a time of rising global demand for efficient, low-carbon cooling technologies. The company said District Cooling systems are gaining prominence for their role in reducing electricity consumption, cutting carbon emissions and delivering long-term economic benefits.

According to Empower, IDEA is headquartered in the United States and comprises public and private sector members from around the world. The company stated that the association is a key platform for knowledge sharing and for promoting the adoption of District Cooling and heating technologies as part of sustainable urban development.

Empower added that through his reappointment, Bin Shafar continues to contribute to strengthening the UAE’s international profile and supporting national efforts to position local expertise on the global stage.