DUBAI, UAE, 19 November 2024: Forbes Middle East has recognized H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar, CEO, Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation (Empower), as a distinguished leader on its list of sustainability leaders in the energy and utilities sector across the Middle East.

Making the announcement through a Press Release, Empower said Forbes selected H.E. Bin Shafar as one of 107 leaders across 12 sectors for their contributions to advancing the sustainability agenda in the region. The UAE topped the list with 54 entries, followed by Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Qatar, underscoring the country’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, Empower said.

According to Empower, Forbes stated that the leaders were ranked based on a comprehensive evaluation of corporate sustainability efforts. The evaluation analysed initiatives within each sector, considering environmental, social and governance (ESG) reports, greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, water and energy usage, resource efficiency, adoption of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies, Empower said. The assessment focused exclusively on initiatives by Middle Eastern companies operating globally, Empower added.

According to Empower, this is the second award H.E. Bin Shafar has received this year from Forbes Middle East, following his selection as one of the top CEOs in the Middle East in August 2024.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Bin Shafar said: “District Cooling systems have become an essential component of energy systems, forming the foundation of sustainable economic and urban development. They are particularly suited for large-scale, high-density projects, such as downtown commercial areas, airports, universities, residential towers and commercial establishments.”

Empower said H.E. Bin Shafar emphasised the vital role of government policies and the continuous support of local energy providers in the effective deployment of District Cooling. Further, he expressed his pride in the company’s employees, who are part of “the world’s largest District Cooling services provider”, Empower said. He also noted that this recognition by a prestigious media organisation is a testament to their tremendous efforts, Empower said.

H.E. Bin Shafar further highlighted Dubai’s objective to increase the adoption of environmentally friendly District Cooling systems to at least 40% of the emirate’s total cooling capacity by 2030, Empower said. With approximately 70% of energy used by buildings in the region for cooling, Empower said, the economic and societal benefits of District Cooling systems make it logical for individuals and organisations to collaborate in promoting and developing this strategic industry.