This is what the jury had to say in the form of observations on the discussions related to each of the six topics …

Occupancy profiles and cooling approaches

To determine the cooling approaches, appropriate system application should be determined on a project-by-project basis, and load optimisation should be mandatory.

District cooling service providers and third parties should be included in load determination to ensure accurate load estimation.

Delivering on promises, meeting cooling requirements on schedule

The key expectations of end-users are:

1. Efficient-energy consumption
2. Reduction in noise pollution
3. Environment-friendly and sustainable approaches
4. Cost effectiveness
5. On-time delivery

While from a timing perspective both standalone and district cooling systems are okay, district cooling systems might face issues when it comes to delivering on time, if service providers are not ready with temporary cooling solutions.

Financing of colling projects

The district cooling industry is currently facing financial issues aggravated by the economic downturn. Lack of trust among various stakeholders adversely affects the situation.

The district cooling industry should put up a proper business case to banks and end-users in order to win their confidence and resolve financial issues.

Costs and the end user

Cost comparison between district cooling and standalone systems need to be carried out in a more scientific manner and should be comprehensive enough to reflect lifecycle costs and charges of both systems.

Transparency is required to ensure that the existing perception among end users, namely that district cooling costs are higher than standalone, need to be addressed.

Safeguarding the environment | health and safety issues

There was a consensus that district cooling is more environmentally friendly than standalone systems on a global basis.

Standardised regulations are required for HSE for both district cooling and standalone systems. Both district cooling and standalone industries should proactively address the issue of harmful refrigerants.

Water and its availability

There is an acute scarcity of potable water in the region

However, adequate amount of TSE is available in the region. This needs to be appropriately utilised by both the district cooling and standalone industries.