Empower awards GDC Dhs200m construction contract for Business Bay Executive Towers district cooling plant

Under the contract, GDC will complete the civil, mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) works as part of the construction phase of the district cooling plant. The scope of work on the district cooling project also includes a chilled water generation plant, as well as the installation of metering and monitoring systems for BBET.

The project is expected to be completed in 15 months with early capacity projected to be operational within 12 months.

Ahmed Bin Shafar, CEO of Empower, said: "GDC was selected for its commitment to the highest international quality standards, as well as its track record in commissioning landmark projects. All the 11 towers of this development will be serviced through the off-site district cooling systems, which will help save up to 35% energy consumption.

"As district cooling is beginning to gain wider acceptance in the region, we are optimistic about our growth prospects. The Business Bay project will further consolidate our status as a leading industry player in the region," said Bin Shafar.

Easa Abdulla Al Ghurair, Director of GDC (Gulf District Cooling) Ascon said: "To be part of such marvelous project as Business Bay is indeed a testimonial on the high quality of services GDC is providing, the business Bay Executive Towers (BBET), first project to be handed over within Business Bay reflects the upscaling image of Dubai.

The Executive Towers comprise 11 towers, which includes nine residential towers, the Aspect Tower - a commercial development, and the Business Bay Hotel. The apartments will be equipped with modern amenities, high-tech facilities and internationally designed interior spaces that embody superb architectural innovation and breathtaking views of the winding Dubai Creek.

Empower is, currently, providing 60,000 refrigeration tonnes (RT) to the Jumeirah Beach Residence, the impressive 22 million square feet development featuring 36 residential towers, four luxury hotel towers and beach clubs.

In addition, the company also handles projects for other prominent clusters in Dubai, including the dynamic new financial district - Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC), as well as the Dubai Healthcare City, City of Arabia and the Business Bay.