District Cooling

District cooling is a centralized system that delivers chilled water to multiple buildings, offering an efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional air conditioning. It reduces electricity demand, lowers emissions, and supports renewable energy integration.

A central plant cools water using absorption or electric chillers, often powered by renewables like solar or geothermal. The chilled water circulates through insulated pipes to cool buildings before returning for re-cooling, optimizing energy use.

District cooling cuts electricity consumption, lowers CO₂ emissions, and reduces maintenance costs for buildings. It also enhances reliability and integrates with renewable energy, making it a key solution for sustainable urban cooling.

High upfront costs and infrastructure needs can slow adoption, but supportive policies and new technologies are improving feasibility worldwide.

With rising urbanization and climate concerns, district cooling is expanding. Advances in thermal storage, smart grids, and renewables are making it more efficient and accessible.