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CCME.NEWS, covering the regional and global HVACR industry with an unwavering commitment to providing in-depth news and analyses on policy, business and technology

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Premium Story

Raven Delta Group announces Dr Iyad Al-Attar as its global IEQ and R&D Ambassador

Dr Al-Attar brings decades of expertise, insight and advocacy to support our efforts in advancing Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), Group says

WALES, United Kingdom, 19 June 2025: Raven Delta Group announced Dr Iyad Al-Attar as the company’s Global IEQ and R&D Ambassador. Making the announcement through a Press Release, Raven Delta Group said Dr Al-Attar is an internationally recognised authority on air filtration, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), and airborne particles.

Raven Delta Group made the announcement to kick off its Global Action Plan’s Clean Air Day 2025. The company said Dr Al-Attar joins Raven Delta Group at a pivotal moment, as it continues to shape healthier, more intelligent buildings for people today and tomorrow.

Raven Delta Group said Dr Al-Attar brings decades of expertise, insight and advocacy to support its efforts in advancing Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) across the built environment. It said that his appointment as Global IEQ and R&D Ambassador reflects the company’s commitment to international collaboration, R&D and real-world impact; ensuring its solutions are informed by science, driven by innovation and delivered with purpose.

Dr Al-Attar said: “We are now at a critical point where Indoor Environmental Quality must become a global priority. Joining Raven Delta Group offers a unique opportunity to influence how organisations perceive and deliver healthier indoor environments. Together, we aim to redefine what’s possible – through science, solutions and shared purposes.”

Raven Delta said Dr Al-Attar’s experience spans academia, consultancy and industry leadership – including his work with Eurovent, World Filtration Institute, Cranfield University and with global publications on air quality, such as International Filtration News.

Premium Story

Empower commences construction of District Cooling plant in Al Sufouh

Empower says the plant will be the first in a series of three such units earmarked for the area; adds that the initiative aligns with the company’s strategy to strengthen District Cooling infrastructure and expand its services in strategically important areas of Dubai

DUBAI, UAE, 18 June 2025: Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) announced the awarding of the excavation and foundation works contract for a District Cooling plant in Al Sufouh 2 area. Making the announcement through a Press Release, Empower said the initiative is part of its expansion plans to meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly District Cooling services in Dubai.

The company said the excavation work has already begun, while construction is scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Empower said the plant will be the first in a series of three units it plans to build in the area. The new plant will have a cooling capacity of 23,400 Refrigeration Tons (RT) to serve several buildings, including the ‘Innovation Hub’, one of the prominent landmarks in Al Sufouh, Empower said. The initiative aligns with the company’s strategy to strengthen District Cooling infrastructure and expand its services in strategically important areas of Dubai, it added.

According to Empower, Dubai’s Al Sufouh area is witnessing increasing residential diversity, due to its strategic location near Sheikh Zayed Road and surrounding green spaces, as well as integrated facilities that cater to individuals and families, including schools, shopping centres, entertainment facilities, fitness centres and more.

H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO, Empower, said: “We are moving forward with the implementation of Empower’s expansion strategy, which aims to strengthen our presence in the local market and increase our share in key areas of Dubai, especially in light of the continuous rise in demand for energy-efficient District Cooling services. These new plants are in response to the region’s population and urban growth, which requires sustainable cooling infrastructure to support this development.

“We are intensifying our efforts to provide reliable and high-quality District Cooling services to our customers by expanding our plants and network across the emirate. We look forward to these projects contributing to the sustainability of the infrastructure and delivering smart, environmentally friendly cooling solutions in line with Dubai’s sustainable development goals.”

H.E. Bin Shafar also said that the company is committed to adding strategic investments to expand its operations in Dubai, which is in line with its ongoing plans to upgrade and develop its facilities and technical teams. The goal is to meet growing demand, boost energy efficiency, and fulfil the expectations of residents and developers for sustainable and cost-effective cooling solutions.

Premium Story

JCI announced USD 9 billion increase to share repurchase program

In implementing share repurchases, the company said it may purchase shares in the open market or through a variety of methods as permitted by applicable securities laws and other legal requirements

CORK, Ireland, 13 June 2025: Johnson Controls International (JCI) announced through a Press Release that the board of directors has approved a USD 9 billion share repurchase authorisation, adding to the USD 1.1 billion remaining as of the end of the second fiscal quarter under the share repurchase authorisation previously approved in 2021.

JCI said in implementing share repurchases, the company may purchase shares in the open market or through a variety of methods as permitted by applicable securities laws and other legal requirements, including through the use of a Rule 10b5-1 plan, a tender offer or an accelerated share repurchase program or any combination of the foregoing. There exists no obligation under the share repurchase authorisation to repurchase any particular amount of shares within any timeframe, and the manner, timing and amount of any purchase will be determined subject to an evaluation of the price of Johnson Controls’ shares, general market conditions and other factors, the company said.

JCI said their authorisation to repurchase shares does not have a set expiration date and may be amended, suspended or terminated at any time at the company’s discretion without prior notice. The company said, JCI currently expects to effect repurchases as redemptions pursuant to Article 3(d) of its Articles of Association.

Premium Story

WFI to conduct virtual seminars on air quality governance and membrane filtration technologies

Upcoming sessions to examine urban IAQ policy and membrane innovations

TORONTO, Canada, 13 June 2025: The World Filtration Institute (WFI) announced through a Press Release two major virtual events in June 2025 that will bring together global experts to discuss critical advancements in indoor air quality (IAQ) governance and membrane filtration technologies. Aimed at industry professionals, researchers and policymakers, the sessions will address practical, regulatory and scientific aspects of clean air and filtration system design, WFI said.

The first event, titled Filtration Hour: Air Quality Governance II, will take place on Thursday, 19 June 2025, from 8:00 to 9:30 AM EDT. According to WFI, the session will explore the vital relationship between urban development and indoor air quality, focusing on the integration of macro-level air quality strategies into building-level solutions to improve occupant health and well-being.

WFI outlined the distinguished speakers for the session:

  • Dr Ellie Amirnasr, VP-Business Development, Mann + Hummel, Germany
  • Nick Agopian, President, Reviveaire, USA
  • Peter Cantone, Founder, Smart Air Defense, USA
  • Dr Phillip Webb, CEO, Health and Wellbeing 360 Ltd, UK
  • Dr Georgia Lagoudas, Senior Fellow, Pandemic Center, Brown University School of Public Health, USA

WFI said the session will be chaired by Dr Iyad Al-Attar, Strategic Director, WFI (Canada), and moderated by Mitch McCreary, Marketing Director, WFI (USA).

According to WFI, the key topics for discussion include:

  • Incorporating IAQ considerations into urban planning and zoning
  • The interaction between outdoor pollution and indoor air quality
  • Design strategies to enhance airflow and minimise contaminants
  • Operational best practices for sustained indoor air quality
  • Governance frameworks, standards and certification schemes

WFI said the event is free for the first 100 registrants and encouraged those interested to register at link.

Ahead of this session, WFI will also host a live technical course titled Membranes in Filtration on Tuesday, 17 June 2025, from 8:00 to 10:00 AM EDT. The course, priced at USD 350 (or USD 175 for members), will provide a comprehensive overview of membrane technologies and their growing role in filtration applications, WFI said.

According to WFI, Lead Instructor Scott Yaeger, President, FAST (USA), will be joined by a panel including:

  • Dr Wilson Poon, Senior Scientist, W.L. Gore, USA
  • Dr-Ing Thomas Peters, Director, Dr.-Ing. Peters Cnslt, Germany
  • Dr Wu Chen, R&D Fellow (Retired), Dow, USA
  • Richard Lydon, Secretary-General, TFS, UK
  • Dr Christine Sun, President, WFI, USA

The session will cover topics such as:

  • MF, UF, NF and RO membrane technologies
  • Manufacturing and performance optimisation
  • Application-specific device design
  • Fouling control and sustainability strategies
  • Emerging technologies and unmet market needs

WFI provided a registration link for the Membranes in Filtration session.

WFI said that both events are designed to support professionals seeking technical expertise or policy context in a rapidly evolving filtration and HVAC landscape. WFI added that the registration details for both sessions are also available on the WFI website.

Premium Story

Güntner advances natural refrigerants and circular economy innovation goals in 2024 Sustainability Report

Measurable environmental progress underlines company’s long-term strategy

FÜRSTENFELDBRUCK, Germany, 12 June 2025: Güntner reported significant sustainability milestones in the newly published 2024 A-HEAT Sustainability Report, highlighting its ongoing contributions to environmental progress across natural refrigerants, water savings and circular economy initiatives. The company made the announcement through a Press Release.

According to Güntner, the achievements are part of its 2030 sustainability roadmap and reflect the company’s commitment to measurable, innovation-led sustainability outcomes. Güntner said the key areas of progress include a near-complete transition to natural refrigerants, reductions in freshwater use and a landmark move toward circular product design.

Christian Weiser, CEO, Güntner, said: “Over the past few years, the way we talk about sustainability has changed. At Güntner, we have always approached sustainability with clarity. For us, it has never been about doing more, it has been about doing what matters, and that means focusing on impact.”

Güntner said the 2024 report features the following highlights:

  • Impact° Label Launch: A new labelling system to help customers identify environmentally conscious products, including energy-efficient systems and those using natural refrigerants.
  • Inaugural Impact Summit: Nearly 190 customers from 36 countries participated in a three-day summit in Budapest, which showcased sustainable solutions and promoted cross-industry collaboration.
  • Natural Refrigerants Leadership: Nearly all Güntner products are already compatible with natural refrigerants such as CO₂ and ammonia. A CO₂-compatible version of the GADV product family will be released in 2025. The company noted it is ahead of its 2030 target for full portfolio readiness.
  • Water Efficiency Measures: Freshwater extraction has been reduced by nearly 20% since 2021, with a target of 30% efficiency improvement by 2030. Güntner said these results are driven by investments in water-saving technologies across its manufacturing facilities.
  • Circular Economy Pilot Project: In partnership with Circular Republic, Güntner said it is developing what it described as the industry’s first product manufactured under circular economy principles. The company said the collaboration focuses on design innovation, material reuse and long-term sustainability.

Güntner said these actions form part of a broader group-wide effort to enhance energy and water efficiency, reduce emissions and foster sustainability awareness across all regions.

To access the full report, Güntner encourages readers to visit: https://guntner.com/en-us/our-impact/sustainability-hub

Premium Story

Johnson Controls declares quarterly dividend

Board announces dividend of $0.37 per share for Q2 2025

CORK, Ireland, 11 June 2025: Johnson Controls International plc announced through a Press Release that its board of directors has approved a regular quarterly dividend of $0.37 per share of common stock. The company stated the dividend will be payable on 18 July 2025 to shareholders of record at the close of business on 23 June 2025.

According to Johnson Controls, the company has paid a consecutive dividend since 1887.

Premium Story

Empower wins three awards at International District Energy Association conference

Utility provider’s CEO says the multiple wins are a testament to years of continuous work and innovation and a demonstration of the international community’s trust in Empower’ business model and sustainability vision

DUBAI, UAE, 11 June 2025: Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower) announced winning three global awards at the International District Energy Association (IDEA 2025) Conference and Exhibition, held from June 2 to 5 in Minneapolis, in the United States. Making the announcement through a Press Release, Empower said it won two gold awards in the categories, ‘Total Number of Buildings Committed’ and ‘Total Building Area Committed’ for District Cooling services outside North America. Additionally, Empower said, it received the ‘Innovation Award Honorable Mention for District Cooling Plant Optimisation Using Machine Learning’.

Rob Thornton, IDEA President & CEO, and H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar, pose with the two Gold Award certificates

According to Empower, IDEA recognised its achievement, noting that this is the 11th time the company is winning these awards, following previous wins in 2005, 2007, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. Empower said it has received over 20 awards in various categories since its inception, along with other awards at different international conferences.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO, Empower, said: “We are proud to have received these prestigious global awards, which are a testament to years of continuous work and innovation. These awards are not just a recognition of our achievements but also a demonstration of the international community’s trust in our business model and sustainable vision. Winning two gold awards and an innovation award confirms that we are on the right path towards a more efficient and intelligent future in District Cooling.

“We at Empower have adopted a strategy that relies on continuous investment in modern technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and machine learning, to improve the performance of our plants and enhance energy efficiency. This strategy not only contributes to reducing our carbon footprint but also raises the quality of services provided to our customers and ensures continued excellence in operational performance.

“These awards reflect the team spirit that characterizes Empower’s teams across all departments, who work tirelessly to achieve the company’s goals and reinforce its position as a global leader in District Cooling services. I would like to extend my deep gratitude to every individual in the company, as these awards are a fruit of their cooperation and continuous efforts.

“At Empower, we do not consider innovation an option but an integral part of our corporate culture. We will continue to expand and develop to support the environmental sustainability journey and reinforce the UAE’s position as a global hub for innovation in infrastructure and clean energy.”

Premium Story

Epta announces circular-economy-based refrigerated display case

UNIT display case incorporates disassembly design, recyclable materials and natural refrigerants

UNIT

MILAN, Italy, 10 June 2025: Epta has announced through a Press Release the launch of UNIT, which the company says is a new Iarp-branded refrigerated display case designed and industrialised entirely according to circular economy principles.

According to Epta, UNIT represents a departure from the traditional linear model of production, use and disposal. The company stated that the display case is aligned with its commitment to “preserving our planet with conscious innovation. Together.” It described UNIT as “a true circular manifesto” and said the model is based on the strategy: “Use Better, Use Longer, Use Again.”

Francesco Mastrapasqua

Francesco Mastrapasqua, Institutional Affairs Manager, Epta, said: “Epta has chosen to take early action by adopting an industrial vision inspired by circular economy, one that already translates future European circularity requirements into real, tangible solutions.”

According to Epta, UNIT has been designed for the Food&Beverage sector and reflects a cradle-to-grave approach. The company stated the product incorporates modularity, energy efficiency and material recyclability under the principles of Reuse, Repair, Recondition and Recycle.

Norman Sarabelli

Norman Sarabelli, Product Marketing Manager, Iarp, said: “UNIT, industrialised for the first time, embodies the ‘from cradle to grave’ approach, where modularity, material recyclability and energy efficiency come together under the banner of the 4Rs: Reuse, Repair, Recondition, Recycle. Each feature has been meticulously crafted to ensure that the solution evolves over time, remains adaptable and continues to deliver value throughout its entire life cycle – essentially without limitation.”

Epta said UNIT is based on a modular strategy known as Design for Disassembly. Components such as the compressor are designed to be accessed and replaced easily using a cassette and handle mechanism. The company reported that the overall number of components has been reduced, with multifunctional parts such as a structural lid that also serves as the basement, enabling easier repairs and lower operational costs.

Epta stated that UNIT uses sustainable and highly recyclable materials, including a natural biodegradable cork for insulation and recycled plastics for durability and end-of-life processing. The company said the refrigeration system uses isobutane R600a, a natural refrigerant with an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero and a global warming potential (GWP) of three.

According to Epta, the UNIT model marks the first milestone in its circular economy strategy and will be followed by developments across its product portfolio, including for the retail sector. The company said it plans to highlight further circular innovations at Euroshop 2026.

Premium Story

Johnson Controls highlights cost and emissions savings from heat pump applications

Johnson Controls reported heat pump systems cut customer heating costs by 53% and reduced emissions by 60% in 2024

MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin, USA, 10 June 2025: Johnson Controls announced through a Press Release that its commercial heat pumps helped customers achieve an average 53% reduction in annual heating costs and a 60% drop in emissions during 2024. The company said these outcomes were achieved through installations across industrial, healthcare, municipal and utility sectors.

According to Johnson Controls, the results reflect a growing adoption of heat pump technology as customers prioritise operational efficiency, cost reduction and climate action. Katie McGinty, Vice President and Chief Sustainability and External Relations Officer, Johnson Controls, said: “In this dynamic world, we are working in true partnership with our customers to deliver on multiple key priorities. Our state-of-the-art heat pumps ensure uptime, runtime and reliability. At the same time, cash is being conserved for growth as heating costs are cut by more than half, providing a significant competitive advantage.” McGinty added: “Achieving these outcomes while also accelerating climate action is just the kind of all-in partnership that our customers are calling for. We are honoured to join with them in making the vision a reality today.”

Johnson Controls cited several international installations to demonstrate the impact of its heat pump systems. In Spain, the company reported a leading food manufacturer saved €1.5 million annually and reduced CO2 emissions by nearly 2,000 tonnes. In Germany, a hospital reduced energy costs by 30% using geothermal heat sources and met 80% of its heating demand, Johnson Controls said. The company added that in the United States, Children’s Hospital of Alabama deployed heat pumps and digital solutions to reduce natural gas use by 69% and cut annual energy costs by $680,000.

The company said that beginning in 2026, four large-scale heat pumps in Hamburg, Germany, will use treated wastewater to supply heat for approximately 39,000 homes through the district heating network. Johnson Controls said in the United Kingdom, Hounslow Council reportedly replaced gas boilers with air source heat pumps, reducing energy costs and CO2 emissions by 50% across over 60 schools and public buildings.

Johnson Controls stated it has one of the most comprehensive global heat pump portfolios for commercial, institutional and industrial applications. The company said it also offers heat pumps using low and ultra-low global warming potential refrigerants.

Johnson Controls said recent additions to the company’s portfolio include the YORK® CYK Water-to-Water Compound Centrifugal Heat Pump, which delivers hot water up to 180°F and is up to four times more efficient than traditional boiler and chiller combinations. The YORK® YMAE modular air-to-water heat pump, also highlighted by the company, produces hot water up to 140°F and operates in cold climates. In Asia, Johnson Controls said it has introduced the YORK® HPS-H 200 and the YSPA-V screw heat pumps to support energy-saving and low-carbon goals across multiple industries.

Premium Story

Armstrong Fluid Technology adds Integrated Designer feature to ADEPT platform

New capability aims to support fast-paced, sustainability-driven markets

DUBAI, UAE, 9 June 2025: Armstrong Fluid Technology announced the launch of a new feature within its ADEPT selection platform through a Press Release. According to the company, the Integrated Designer is designed to streamline the process of selecting and sizing pumps and accessories from a single interface.

Armstrong stated that the tool is tailored to meet the needs of engineering professionals in fast-growing regions such as the Middle East, where there is a strong focus on sustainability and smart building technologies. The company said the Integrated Designer enables users to create equipment schedules and system layouts using pre-configured solutions.

Based on system flow and pressure inputs, as well as flow redundancy and turn-down values, the tool recommends optimal pump sizes, the number of pumps required and alternative combinations, Armstrong said.

“With the Middle East’s growing emphasis on smart building technologies and green infrastructure, this tool is a game-changer for mechanical engineers and system designers,” said Zeljko Terzic, Global Offering Manager – Pumps, Armstrong Fluid Technology. “Users can get optimized selections in just a few clicks and avoid the extra work of manual calculations. The Integrated Designer gives professionals the ability to deliver better designs, faster and with more confidence,” he added.

Armstrong highlighted the following features of the Integrated Designer:

  • Integrated selection and system design in one workflow
  • Real-time system performance estimates
  • One-click export of equipment schedules and submittal packages

The company stated that the Integrated Designer is now available to registered users of ADEPT, Armstrong’s online design and product selection platform.