Abu Dhabi-based district cooling firm Tabreed has made significant strides in its mission to decarbonize the cooling industry by obtaining the ‘Verified Carbon Standard’ for one of its Abu Dhabi facilities, which certifies carbon credits to help offset emissions.
The verification process was conducted by Verra, an independent non-profit organization that sets globally recognized standards for climate action and sustainable development. This year-long assessment focused on a plant that provides essential sustainable cooling services to a prominent commercial and tourist development.
The findings revealed that the plant’s operations yield substantial environmental advantages by maximizing energy efficiency. The facility, which has a capacity of 28,000 Refrigeration Tons (RT), is estimated to prevent around 19,320 tons of carbon emissions annually by reducing electricity consumption compared to traditional standalone cooling solutions. According to the Verra report, Tabreed’s “highly efficient district cooling will replace less efficient cooling systems, leading to a reduction in electricity use and, consequently, a decrease in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.”
Carbon credit trading eligibility
As a result, Tabreed is now eligible to trade carbon credits in the voluntary market as a recognized emissions reducer—a significant milestone not only for the company but also for the entire district cooling sector. This achievement marks the first instance of a district cooling company reaching such a standard, creating opportunities for Tabreed to generate additional revenue through carbon credit trading as businesses globally seek to offset their emissions.
Although this project centered on a single Tabreed facility, its success paves the way for the company to implement the same methodology across its other sites, establishing a framework that demonstrates district cooling technology’s superior energy efficiency and lower electricity consumption, which leads to a notable reduction in carbon emissions.
This development follows a series of renewable energy initiatives by Tabreed in 2023, including the collaborative design, construction, and commissioning of the region’s first district cooling plant powered by renewable geothermal energy, in partnership with ADNOC.
Read more: Abu Dhabi’s Tabreed shareholders approve new record high dividend payment for FY 2023
Supporting net-zero goals
Khalid Al Marzooqi, Tabreed’s chief executive officer, remarked on the company’s recent achievement, highlighting Tabreed’s longstanding role as a leader in the district cooling sector. He noted that while others may attempt to follow their lead, Tabreed’s recognition as the first district energy company globally to achieve this standard is significant for several reasons, particularly in supporting their assertion that district cooling can be up to 50% more energy efficient than traditional methods.
He further emphasized the growing awareness of climate change and the escalating demand for cooling solutions, which have become essential for many communities, businesses, and industries. Al Marzooqi expressed confidence in Tabreed’s ability to meet this demand, mentioning the company’s operations in six countries and its readiness to expand into new markets. He indicated that Tabreed is prepared to leverage its expertise to assist nations in achieving their net-zero goals while promoting societal and economic development.
For more news on sustainability, click here.
