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  • calendar_month May 24, 2022
    Tabreed Extends Partnership with ENGIE Digital, Introducing Bespoke AI to Downtown Dubai District Cooling Network
    Collaboration is part of Tabreed’s Big Data strategySoftware will fully automate operation of the world’s largest district cooling scheme Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – 24 May 2022: Tabreed, the UAE’s pioneering District Cooling company, and ENGIE Digital, have extended their partnership with the implementation of Nemo, ENGIE’s operations software, in the 235,000 refrigeration ton (RT) capacity Downtown Dubai network. In recent years, Tabreed has invested heavily in revamping its IT infrastructure as part of the company’s digital transformation and big data strategy and is capitalising on data generated over decades of operating district cooling plants and networks. Thanks to state-of-the-art IT infrastructure and the vast amounts of data readily available, Tabreed is able to achieve what is considered a breakthrough in district cooling by setting up a fully autonomous operation in the Downtown Dubai District Cooling Scheme, which is the largest of its kind anywhere in the world. Data driven intelligent algorithms are able to forecast customer demand and make all operation related decisions, such as chilled water flow, temperature set points, equipment sequencing and network mix, optimising energy and water consumption and removing human error from operations. In addition to the environmental benefits of this project, early testing has proved a remarkable decline in equipment downtime and improved cooling supply security. These improvements result from early failure detection and swift action of artificial intelligent algorithms that are able to divert flow and change mix on chilled water networks in a fraction of a second. Atef Al Breiki, Senior Vice President of Operations at Tabreed, explained that one of the main factors that positions the company as the region’s leader in district cooling is that it has been operating longer than anyone else. “Over the past decades, Tabreed has accumulated unparalleled district cooling engineering and operations expertise, generating massive amounts of OT and business process data,” he said. “Tabreed has implemented a digital strategy, investing in its IT infrastructure and OT side systems to unlock value from its legacy and long track record in the business. The collaboration with ENGIE Digital and success of Nemo integration is a direct result of this strategy.” Al Breiki added: “This project is the first of its kind, designed to ensure that our business model is future proof. With such programmes we continue to create value for all stakeholders and benefit society at large, further solidifying Tabreed’s position as the region’s leading district cooling provider.” Igor Rocca, Nemo Project Lead at ENGIE Digital, agreed, saying: “This partnership with Tabreed is a phenomenal milestone for Nemo, ENGIE’s digital DHC-dedicated platform, and we are honoured to be supporting Tabreed in their drive for continuous improvement and operational efficiency at the Downtown Dubai cooling network. The successful implementation of Nemo has propelled us and given us motivation to keep on enhancing our platform and better supporting our partners. All Nemo teams are fully committed to bring the maximum value possible to Tabreed.” Tabreed acquired an 80% stake in the Downtown Dubai district cooling network from Emaar Properties in April 2020. The world’s largest district cooling network, it comprises four interconnected district cooling plants with a combined connected supply of 160,145 RT of cooling connected to 80 buildings. Through its energy efficiency, the network prevents 205,000 tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere each year – equivalent to removing 44,500 cars from the roads. Tabreed’s Downtown Dubai network supplies cooling to many of the world’s most iconic buildings and venues, including the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, Dubai Opera and other landmark residential, commercial and hospitality developments. For more updates from Tabreed, visit www.tabreed.ae
  • calendar_month May 13, 2022
    Tabreed Releases its First Quarter 2022 Financial Results
    Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – 12 May 2022: Tabreed, the UAE headquartered and leading international district cooling developer, yesterday released its consolidated financial results for the first quarter of 2022, reporting a net profit of AED 88.2 million – an increase of 3.1% compared to its Q1 2021 performance. With a promising start to the year, Tabreed practically doubled the size of its concession capacity in Oman with the acquisition of the district cooling plant that services Al Mouj, the Sultanate’s most prestigious new real estate development. Tabreed’s portfolio in Oman now includes seven plants and Al Mouj represents the company’s biggest project there, evidence of its desire to drive further investment in this important territory. A further nine new connections were added in the UAE and Bahrain during the quarter, increasing Tabreed’s total connected capacity to 1,236,433 Refrigeration Tons (RT). During February, Tabreed announced its entry into the Egyptian market, partnering with The Egyptian Company for Energy and Cooling projects (Gascool) and Marakez for Real Estate Investment Company, to provide district cooling services to the new D5M mall in New Katameya, east Cairo. Rounding off the first quarter of 2022 with a clear indication of its environmental goals, in March Tabreed publicly announced a new Green Financing Framework that will benefit its investors, stakeholders, developers and communities alike, by aligning operations with the sustainability and ‘Net Zero’ targets of each country Tabreed is present within. Financial highlights – three months ended 31 March 2022:   Group revenue increased by 17% to AED 419.9 million (Q1 2021: AED 357.6 million)Core chilled water revenue increased by 20% to AED 405.7 million (Q1 2021: AED 339.1 million)EBITDA increased by 16% to AED 263.6 million (Q1 2021: AED 226.8 million)Profit from Operation increased by 14% to AED 153.7 million (Q1 2021: AED 134.6 million)Net profit attributable to the parent increased by 3.1% to AED 88.2 million (Q1 2021: AED 85.5 million)  Operational highlights – three months ended 31 March 2022:          Total connected capacity reached 1,236,433 Refrigeration Tons (RT)26,337 Refrigeration Tons (RT) of new customer connections added, with load additions of 7,537 RT in the UAE, 18,300 RT in Oman and 500 RT in BahrainTabreed achieved a record 15,196,136 hours worked without a single lost time incident (LTI), the most recent occurring in July 2015  Commenting on the results, Khaled Abdulla Al Qubaisi, Tabreed’s Chairman, said: “This is a truly exceptional UAE company and these first quarter results demonstrate, not only Tabreed’s robustness, but the wisdom of its organic and sustainable approach to growth. We’re expanding our portfolio and entering new territories, with our recently announced partnership with the International Finance Corporation [IFC] set to redefine Tabreed’s geographical reach and impact. And closer to home we will continue to add new customer connections, enter long-term strategic partnerships, increase our portfolio and seize opportunities to build on an already world-class reputation for excellence.” Eng. Khalid Abdulla Al Marzooqi, Tabreed’s Chief Executive Officer, added: “With such remarkable first quarter results, Tabreed continues to prove its impeccable credentials as a company that’s safe for its investors, its stakeholders, its people and the wider environment. With 26,337 RT of new connections added in just three months, we have entered 2022 with real momentum and meaningful growth in our sights. Tabreed is a true, home-grown success story and this is going to be another excellent year of meaningful progress and surpassing expectations.”
  • calendar_month March 22, 2022
    Tabreed Shareholders Approve Record Dividend Payment as Company Looks to Further Growth in 2022
    The UAE’s original District Cooling provider celebrates another year of exceptional success Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – 22 March, 2022: The shareholders of Tabreed have approved a dividend for 2021 through the combination of a cash dividend of 6 fils per share plus a bonus share issue of 1 share for every 40 shares held, which equates to 12 fils per share. This is the highest ever dividend payment to Tabreed shareholders and represents an increase on the previous year which reflects the growth of the business, whilst retaining availability of Tabreed’s growth capital. The dividend was formally approved during Tabreed’s Annual General Assembly (AGA), which took place on Monday, 21 March 2022. The AGA was chaired by Tabreed’s Chairman, Khaled Abdulla Al Qubaisi, and attended by shareholders and members of Tabreed’s Board of Directors. Commenting on the company’s success throughout 2021, Al Qubaisi said: “2021 was a stellar year for Tabreed, seeing us outperform on multiple fronts to advance towards our long-term sustainable growth plans. We doubled down on our strategy, expanded through organic growth and acquisitions, achieved operational efficiencies and delivered excellence for our clients and people. Our Green Finance Framework further placed us at the heart of the region’s current and future sustainable infrastructure projects. “Our resolute focus on excellence in all that we do has reinforced Tabreed’s resilience and reliability, unlocking value across the business. Both our acquisition of the 80,000 Refrigeration Ton (RT) Al Maryah plant and our strategic partnership with the World Bank Group’s International Finance Corporation (IFC), underscored our focus on partnerships and pursuit for growth in the UAE and key international markets. “As we look ahead, we will continue to invest in our business, to capitalise on the significant opportunities aligned with our focus on creating a sustainable future for all.” Khalid Abdulla Al Marzooqi, Tabreed’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “During 2021, group revenue increased by 12% to AED 1.95 billion, core chilled water revenue increased by 12% to AED 1.88 billion and we added 40,495 Refrigeration Tons (RT) of new customer connections – proof, if any were needed, that Tabreed is on the right path. And already 2022 is shaping up to be another stellar year in the history of this most resilient organisation. “We provide essential district cooling to many of the region’s most notable real estate developments and communities, aligning with the country’s stated environmental targets by massively reducing energy consumption, resulting in significant reductions in carbon emissions. Our operations last year, for instance, prevented the release of 1.39 million metric tons of CO2 into the atmosphere, equivalent to the removal of 302,592 vehicles from our roads. “Tabreed has a more diverse business portfolio than ever before, as we continue to expand into new geographical regions and service offerings. Recently we announced new projects in Egypt and Saudi Arabia, while our operations in India continue to gather pace. In addition to our district cooling operations, Tabreed now helps businesses optimise their energy usage, reducing their operating costs and environmental impact – all of which add to the company’s already impeccable green credentials. A dynamic and sustainable business, I am confident that Tabreed will go from strength-to-strength over the coming months and years.”
  • calendar_month March 07, 2022
    Tabreed Launches Green Financing Framework to Fund Projects Aligned with UAE’s Carbon-Neutral Objectives
    Abu Dhabi, UAE, 7 March 2022: National Central Cooling Company PJSC (DFM: Tabreed) has announced  the publication of a Green Financing Framework, which will help the company meet its commitments and finance new projects to support its business strategy and vision. The framework enables Tabreed to issue green bonds and loans, with the resulting net proceeds to be used for financing ‘Eligible Green Projects’ which include its core business of constructing, acquiring and operating District Cooling schemes, as well as projects related to Energy and Water Efficiency and Wastewater Management. The framework is accompanied by a Second Party Opinion from Sustainalytics, a leading, global ESG ratings agency. This Framework and Second Party Opinion demonstrate the sustainable nature of Tabreed’s District Cooling operations, which utilise 50% less power than conventional cooling, while providing an essential service in the GCC and wider region. Tabreed’s Green Financing Framework has been developed in accordance with the ICMA Green Bond Principles (GBP) 2021 and the Loan Market Association (LMA) Green Loan Principles (GLP) 2021, and will be governed by a multidisciplinary management committee led by the Group’s Chief Financial Officer. Adel Salem Al Wahedi, Tabreed’s Chief Financial Officer, said this new framework will support Tabreed’s sustainability-driven vision and growth. “We are convinced,” he said, “that this will align our operations with the United Nations’ and UAE’s sustainable development goals. Around the world, governments and public institutions are adopting ambitious sustainability agendas and at Tabreed we are supporting the UAE’s efforts in this regard. Our investors and stakeholders trust us to lead the drive for sustainability in the district cooling and energy sector, and this green financial framework will benefit developers and communities alike, as well as provide Tabreed with its own extra capacity for meaningful growth.” The framework will also benefit Tabreed’s investors, shareholders, staff and customers, enabling the company to attract green debt and equity funds to invest in its business. Additionally, the second party opinion received from Sustainalytics provides strong support for Tabreed’s ESG credentials, the report stating they were “confident that Tabreed is well positioned to issue Green Financing Instruments and that the Tabreed Green Financing Framework is robust, transparent and in alignment with the four core components of the Green Bond Principles 2021 and Green Loan Principles 2021”. For more updates from Tabreed, visit www.tabreed.ae
  • calendar_month February 15, 2022
    Tabreed Releases its Full 2021 Financial Results, with Increased Profits and Plans for a Sustainable Future
    One of UAE’s most resilient companies maintains robust operations, aims to expand portfolioAbu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – 15 February 2022: National Central Cooling Company PJSC (DFM: Tabreed), today released its consolidated financial results for 2021, reporting a net profit of AED 585.2 million – an increase of 6% compared to its 2020 performance. In addition, Tabreed’s Board of Directors is pleased to recommend a dividend of 12.0 fils per share, to be paid 50% in cash and 50% through a bonus share issue of 1 share for every 40 shares held. This dividend represents an increase on last year in line with the growth of the business, while retaining availability of growth capital within the business. Throughout 2021, Tabreed continued to execute its long-term plans for sustainable growth. The company streamlined its operations while expanding within the UAE, adding new connections in its Downtown Dubai District Cooling Plant network and acquiring full ownership of Abu Dhabi’s 80,000 Refrigeration Ton (RT) Al Maryah plant from from joint venture partner, Mubadala Infrastructure Partners (MIP). In April the company showcased its all-new corporate identity, during a spectacular light display against the side of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, broadcast around the world. Over the subsequent months, Tabreed has benefitted from increased public awareness, bolstered by recognition and accolades from highly respected organisations resulting in several notable awards for business excellence, including the prestigious Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award’s Silver Category in the Services Sector, as well as two separate awards from the International District Energy Association (IDEA). Market conditions remained volatile during the year, as the pandemic continued to impact industries around the region and beyond, Tabreed’s resilience and impeccable reliability more vital than ever for customers dependent on uninterrupted service. Tabreed continued its proactive approach to staff welfare, too, with its Employee Assist Programme (EAP), which provides continuous support on a wide range of issues, including mental and physical wellbeing. The company’s green credentials came to the fore during 2021, too, exemplified by its participation in the global COP26 environmental summit and the introduction of its new Green Finance Framework, which puts Tabreed at the heart of the region’s current and future sustainable infrastructure projects. In 2021 the company also published its annual ESG Report, detailing its 2020 environmental, social, and governance performance in the communities in which it operates, providing greater insight than ever into Tabreed’s activities and achievements. As 2021 drew to a close, Tabreed finalised a significant strategic partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group and the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Under this partnership, the current Tabreed India is to be transferred to a new, Singapore incorporated company owned 75% by Tabreed and 25% by IFC. This company has a clear mandate to invest in projects of up to approximately $400 million over the next five years, targeting a portfolio of approximately 100,000 refrigeration tonnes (RT) across India.  Financial highlights – 12 months ended 31 December 2021:   Group revenue increased by 12% to AED 1.95 billion (2020: AED 1.7 billion)Core chilled water revenue increased by 12% to AED 1.88 billion (2020: AED 1.69 billion)EBITDA increased by 7% to AED 1.03 billion (2020: AED 970.1 million)Net profit attributable to the parent increased by 6% to AED 585.2 million (2020: AED 550.3 million)  Operational highlights – 12 months ended 31 December 2021:          Total connected capacity increased to 1,210,096 Refrigeration Tons (RT), after adjusting for the divestment of Qatar Cool40,495 Refrigeration Tons (RT) of new customer connections addedSuccessful integration of two concessions totalling 88,000 RT on Saadiyat Island, with closing achieved during April 2021Tabreed achieved a record 14,738,690 hours worked without a single lost time incident (LTI), the most recent occurring in July 2015  Environmental impact highlights – 12 months ended 31 December 2021: 2.33 billion kilowatt hours saved across the GCC – enough to power 132,590 homes every yearPrevented the release of 1.39 million metric tons of CO2 into the atmosphere, which is equivalent to the removal of 302,592 vehicles from the roads annually  Commenting on the results, Khaled Abdulla Al Qubaisi, Tabreed’s Chairman, said: “Once again Tabreed’s year-end results are evidence that the company is in the safest possible hands and the company’s net income builds on our recent history, which has seen average annual growth of 10% since the beginning of 2017. Our prudent, strategy-led investment programmes continually produce numbers that prove Tabreed is on the right track, with sustainability at the core of our operations and financial outlook. Tabreed is a remarkable, home-grown UAE success story and its position in the market as the world’s leading expert in district energy is one we can all take great reassurance from, as we continue our drive toward a sustainable future for all.” Khalid Abdulla Al Marzooqi, Tabreed’s Chief Executive Officer, added: “Perhaps more than at any other time in the company’s history, 2021 was the year Tabreed was regionally and globally recognised for the vital role it plays in achieving ambitious environmental and carbon reduction targets. Our relentless pursuit of operational excellence and energy efficiency positively impacts everyone concerned – our shareholders, stakeholders, customers and staff, as well as the communities we serve. Tabreed looks to the future with genuine optimism as numerous long-term strategic plans come to fruition, and it’s a company I am proud to be leading into 2022.”
  • calendar_month February 10, 2022
    Tabreed Enters Egyptian Market, Partnering with MARAKEZ and Gascool for East Cairo’s New ‘D5M’ Mall
    Partnership demonstrates Tabreed’s support for Egypt’s energy transition strategyAbu Dhabi, UAE, 10 February 2022: National Central Cooling Company PJSC (DFM: Tabreed), The Egyptian Company for Energy and Cooling projects (Gascool) and Marakez for Real Estate Investment Company, have signed a partnership agreement to provide district cooling services to the new D5M mall in New Katameya, east Cairo. Being the company’s first foray into the Egyptian market, the deal is of special importance to Tabreed with the country representing significant potential for future portfolio growth. Construction of D5M is currently nearing completion and it forms an integral part of the wider ‘District Five’ development by the developer, MARAKEZ, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Fawaz Al Hokair Group (FAH), one of the leading retail developers in the MENA region. Mall operations will commence this year, with full operations targeted before the end of 2023. Tabreed is the lead partner of the consortium with a 60% equity stake while Gascool holds the remaining 40%. The district cooling plant will be built in phases. Its operational ultimate capacity will be 6,000 refrigeration tons (RT) contracted under a long-term agreement, with total installed capacity of 7,500 RT. The 70,000 square metre D5M also includes a residential complex with 1,800 state-of-the-art town houses and apartments as well as offices. It is the latest project by MARAKEZ, which currently operates a network of 17 shopping malls, managing over 1.6 million square metres of prime retail real estate, including the flagship Mall of Arabia. Following the signing of the agreement, Eng. Khalid Abdulla Al Marzooqi, Tabreed’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “This is a very important, strategic step for our company, our entry into the Egyptian market being a solid part of our long-term plans for sustainable growth beyond the GCC. Tabreed’s unrivalled expertise in the district cooling industry will benefit Egypt in various ways and the Gascool JV is a perfect fit for Tabreed, having a proven track record for operational excellence, sharing our values and a relentless pursuit of energy efficiency. Our business partner and shareholder, ENGIE, also has a presence in Egypt, experience that Tabreed will be able to benefit from over the coming years.” Tabreed is Egypt’s first international investor in district cooling and the market is a very promising one. The industry is a relatively recent introduction to Egypt, with Gascool being the country’s first district cooling provider, established in 2004. Adoption is increasing, however, and this will assist the country in meeting its environmental and sustainability targets. District cooling uses approximately half the energy consumed by conventional cooling methods, preventing the release of millions of tons of carbon dioxide each year. The district cooling industry is becoming increasingly viewed as an essential pillar in the drive towards carbon neutrality. MARAKEZ CEO Basil Ramzi commented on the partnership saying: “Our partnership with Tabreed and Gascool – two leading companies providing energy-efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendlier cooling solutions – further deepens our efforts in support of Egypt Vision 2030 toward greater environmental sustainability. As an industry leader in the real estate development sector, MARAKEZ seeks equally strong partners to support its pioneering commercial and residential developments across Egypt.” Gascool Chairman, Eng. Amr Badawy, echoed these sentiments, stating: “We had the pleasure of signing the consortium agreement with Tabreed, one of the leading international district cooling developers in the world. Egypt’s market is currently witnessing unprecedented development, requiring district cooling services as the most energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solution.” For more updates from Tabreed, visit www.tabreed.ae
  • calendar_month January 25, 2022
    Tabreed Doubles Contracted Capacity in Oman with 30,000 RT Al Mouj Muscat Concession
    New addition sees Tabreed’s Oman portfolio increase to seven district cooling plants Abu Dhabi, UAE, 25 January 2022: National Central Cooling Company PJSC (DFM: Tabreed) held a signing ceremony on Sunday 23 January 2022, to mark the completion of the acquisition, through its subsidiary in Oman, of a new district cooling plant from Al Mouj, Muscat’s premier development. This new transaction takes Tabreed’s tally of owned and contracted district cooling plants in the Sultanate to seven. Al Mouj Muscat is a joint venture between the UAE’s Majid Al Futtaim Properties and Omran, the tourism and development arm of the Omani government. An aspirational lifestyle destination with ocean views and beaches, parks and a promenade featuring award-winning architecture, it also includes hotels, retail and dining outlets, a 400-berth marina and a golf course ranked amongthe top 100 worldwide.Tabreed (through its subsidiary in Oman) and Al Mouj Muscat have signed an exclusive perpetual cooling concession for over 30,000 refrigeration tons (RT), with more than 19,000 RT already connected and operational. This transaction practically doubles Tabreed’s concession capacity in the Sultanate from 32,000 RT to 62,000 RT. Khalid Abdullah Al Marzooqi, Tabreed’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “With this acquisition, Tabreed has significantly increased its residential cooling business in Oman. This is a natural progression for the company and we are getting closer to end users, which benefits us all. Al Mouj also embodies a truly promising partnership between Tabreed, Omran, Tanmia and Majid Al Futtaim Properties.” Tabreed  commenced operations in Oman in 2007  together with leading Omani investors as partners such as Ministry of Defence Pension Fund, ISS Pension Fund, Diwan of Royal Court Pension Fund, PPD and PMA International. Tabreed’s first project in Oman was the 2,411 RT plant at Knowledge Oasis Muscat, Oman’s flagship technology park in 2010. This was followed by Oman Avenues Mall, Land Mark in Bausher, Mall of Muscat, Hilton Garden Inn Hotel and Al Araimi Boulevard Mall, the region’s first eco-friendly retail destination.Al Mouj is Tabreed’s largest project to date in Oman and a culmination of the company’s desire to continue investing in essential district cooling infrastructure for the Sultanate’s most important real estate developments. The transaction was signed in December 2021 and has now achieved financial close, representing a fitting to conclusion for 2021, a year which was also notable for the appointment of Abdullah Al Hinai as Tabreed’s regional Chief Executive Officer in Oman. An Omani national, Al Hinai has been with the company since its formation in Oman, initially as Project Manager and more recently as Projects Director. For more updates from Tabreed, visit www.tabreed.ae
  • calendar_month January 05, 2022
    Tabreed Announces Antonio Di Cecca as its New Chief Operating Officer
    Abu Dhabi, UAE, 05 January 2022: The National Central Cooling Company PJSC (DFM: Tabreed), today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Antonio Di Cecca as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO) with effect from January, 5 2022. Antonio Di Cecca succeeds Jean-François Chartrain, who joined as Tabreed’s Chief Operating Officer in November 2017. During Chartrain’s four-year tenure, the company experienced an unprecedented period of portfolio growth and made major advancements in operational efficiency along with significant advancements in improved, streamlined customer service while posting record profits and shareholder dividends. Khalid Abdullah Al Marzooqi, Tabreed’s Chief Executive Officer, said of the appointment: “Antonio joins Tabreed at possibly the most exciting time for the company, as it builds on the momentum following its wholesale rebranding, which itself swiftly followed the most impactful and ambitious programme of major acquisitions in Tabreed’s rich history. “This recent progress has been largely influenced by the person Antonio is replacing – Jean-Francois Chartrain – and to him we owe a debt of gratitude. To say his input has been invaluable would be a huge understatement and his cool, calm demeanour will surely be missed by any of us privileged to have worked alongside him. It’s safe to say that I speak for everyone at Tabreed when I say we wish him and his family the very best for the future.” Jean-Francois (known throughout the company simply as ‘JEFF’), joined as Tabreed’s Chief Operating Officer in November 2017, shortly after ENGIE invested in 40% ownership of the company. Prior to joining Tabreed, Chartrain was Head of Technical Department and Engineering at ENGIE Italia, where he served as well as Director of the District Heating of Aosta, in the northwest of Italy. Chartrain said of his time with Tabreed that it had been transformational, with several key acquisitions such as the Downtown Dubai District Cooling Network and the Saadiyat Island and Al Maryah Island cooling plants in Abu Dhabi, exponentially increasing Tabreed’s portfolio and profitability. “Operationally, too, we have made huge advancements,” he remarked, “with our UAE O&M activities being overhauled to benefit our customers and increase our efficiency, which is vital for the environment and the communities in which we operate. I am very proud to have played a part in these important advancements and I look forward to seeing the company go from strength-to-strength in the future.” Italian Di Cecca, 46, like Chartrain, hails from ENGIE, where he has performed numerous roles in the district cooling industry worldwide since joining in 2011, most recently as Head of Asset Management at the group’s Dubai headquarters. He was ENGIE’s Business Development Executive when the group carried out its 40% stake acquisition of Tabreed and has been instrumental in bringing together the two entities, representing both Tabreed and ENGIE internationally. Antonio has extensive international experience of 20+ years within the energy sector, which includes a period of five years he spent working with the International Energy Agency (IEA). He is also an active member in many district energy associations as well as the technical committee of the World Utility Congress. Di Cecca is fluent in Italian, French, Spanish and English, and has a Master in Aerospace Engineering from Politecnico di Torino (Turin, Italy), and a Specialized Master in Energy Engineering and Management from the Ecole de Mines de Paris (Paris, France).
  • calendar_month December 20, 2021
    Tabreed Partners with IFC for Expansion in India
    Abu Dhabi, UAE, 20 December 2021: National Central Cooling Company PJSC (DFM: Tabreed) has finalised a significant strategic partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group and the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Since its establishment in 1956, IFC has invested more than $321 billion in emerging markets. The partnership will include ownership of Tabreed India, currently a wholly owned subsidiary of Tabreed, being transferred to a new holding company established in Singapore to be jointly owned by Tabreed (75%) and IFC (25%). The holding company will be established with initial equity commitments from the partners of US$100 million with a mandate to invest in projects of up to approximately $400 million over the next five years, targeting a portfolio of approximately 100,000 refrigeration tonnes (RT) servicing industrial, commercial and retail developments across India. IFC and Tabreed have agreed investment eligibility criteria which include robust environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) requirements for projects in these geographies. Public environment and sustainability (E&S) disclosures will be made by IFC prior to investing in each project. India, the partnership’s key target market, has low per capita cooling consumption and a rapidly growing cooling market across all sectors, and district cooling adoption is imperative for India to meet its ambitious climate goals. There have been a number of promising policy and regulatory developments in India, including the groundbreaking announcement of a Cooling Action Plan to facilitate sustainable growth in cooling demand for the nation, with district cooling being identified as an important intervention area. As a result, several Indian government bodies and smart cities are now increasingly evaluating the incorporation of district cooling into urban master planning. Tabreed has been actively supporting these initiatives and engaging with several top tier real estate developers across the country to evaluate project opportunities. “As temperatures are rising, access to cooling is a major development challenge, especially in emerging economies located in the tropical climate zone. This district cooling project is at the heart of what IFC is all about,” said Makhtar Diop, IFC’s Managing Director. “By working with Tabreed, we will bring sustainable, innovative and much needed cooling solutions to India and other parts of Asia.” Khalid Abdulla Al Marzooqi, CEO of Tabreed, said: “This is a positive and timely development for Tabreed. IFC has been established in this region for many decades, unlocking investment opportunities, strengthening clients’ performance and impact, as well as improving environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards. It makes perfect sense for us to join forces as we are able to lean on each other’s unrivalled expertise. “India is strategically very important for us, with demand for energy growing faster there than anywhere else in the world right now. District cooling uses, on average, half the power consumed by conventional cooling methods, meaning it’s an essential part of many countries’ climate goals due to the enormous savings in CO2 emissions achieved through energy efficiency. For countries such as India, reliable cooling means industrial, agricultural and societal progress, and we eagerly look forward to making a meaningful contribution to its prosperity while ensuring the sustainability we know is vital to all our futures.”
  • calendar_month November 14, 2021
    Tabreed’s Q3 2021 Financial Results are Announced, with Increased Profitability resulting from Sound Business Planning
    Company now more agile than ever, paving the way for further expansion14 November, 2021 – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: The National Central Cooling Company PJSC (DFM: Tabreed), headquartered in the UAE, today released its consolidated financial results for the first nine months of 2021, reporting a net profit of AED 388 million – an increase of 5% compared to its 2020 performance for the same period. The results ably demonstrate the effectiveness of Tabreed’s approach to sustainable growth, with the company divesting its 44% stake in Qatar District Cooling Company while increasing ownership of the 80,000 Refrigeration Ton (RT) Al Maryah Island district cooling scheme in Abu Dhabi to 100% during the quarter. Financial highlights – nine months ended 30 September 2021: Group revenue increased by 16% to AED 1464.7 million (Q3 2020: AED 1257.9 million)Core chilled water revenue increased by 16% to AED 1412.9 million (Q3 2020: AED 1219.1 million)EBITDA increased by 15% to AED 775.7 million (Q3 2020: AED 676.6 million)Profit from Operation increased by 19% to AED 483.5 million (Q3 2020: AED 406.4 million)Share of results of associates and joint ventures reduced by -9% to AED 33.7 million (Q3 2020: AED 37.1 million)Net profit attributable to the parent increased by 5% to AED 388.0 million (Q3 2020: AED 370.4 million) Operational highlights – nine months ended 30 September 2021: Total connected capacity reduced to 1,202,760 Refrigeration Tons (RT), following divestment of Qatar District Cooling Company shareholdingTabreed achieved a record 14,307,638 hours worked without a single lost time incident (LTI), the most recent occurring in July 2015 Khaled Abdulla Al Qubaisi, Tabreed’s Chairman, said: “Tabreed continues to shine, posting more record results that demonstrate the effectiveness of its long-term strategy. Shrewd investments make for steady and manageable growth and this company’s rock-steady resilience is something everyone involved in can be proud of. Customer service, operational reliability and an unwavering pursuit of efficiency are what Tabreed’s unrivalled reputation is built upon and I look forward to seeing the company’s future plans come to fruition, particularly as district cooling will play an essential role in the UAE’s drive toward carbon neutrality. We are a force for good – for the environment, our customers, our people, our stakeholders and the communities in which we operate.” Khalid Abdullah Al Marzooqi, Tabreed’s Chief Executive Officer, added: “The company experienced rapid and exceptional growth of its portfolio during 2020 and we are now seeing real return on investment with steady, reliable and efficient performance across our networks. Our shareholders appreciate this considered approach to growth and we have exciting plans for the near future, with an even more diverse array of services that will help to bolster our leading market position while adding to our environmental credentials. “We keep mentioning the word ‘resilient’ when referring to Tabreed and for good reason: it perfectly sums up our approach to business – we were the first district cooling company to be established in the UAE and after nearly a quarter of a century are stronger and more agile than ever. Tabreed’s medium- and long-term plans are sound and attainable, and all of us in this remarkable company have genuine reason for optimism when we look to the future.” For more updates from Tabreed, visit www.tabreed.ae
  • calendar_month October 10, 2021
    Tabreed Honoured with Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award and ‘System of the Year’ by the International District Energy Association
    Abu Dhabi, UAE, 10 October 2021: National Central Cooling Company PJSC (DFM: Tabreed) has been awarded ‘System of the Year’ by the International District Energy Association (IDEA) in a special ceremony during the IDEA2021 annual conference, which was held in Austin, Texas, under the theme ‘Powering the Future’. IDEA says that the award “is presented annually to outstading district energy systems for operational excellence, environmental stewardship, exemplary energy efficiency and customer commitment while contributing to the advancement of the global district energy industry.” It goes on to say: “The System of the Year Award (SOYA) is the highest honor IDEA can bestow on a district energy system. It recognizes an exemplary district energy system providing high-level performance and service that further the goals of the district energy industry.” Tabreed also took the District Energy Space 2020 (Beyond North America) Silver Award for ‘Number of Buildings Committed’ in recognition of the company’s unprecedented growth during 2020, which included the acquisition of Downtown Dubai and Saadiyat Island schemes. The two IDEA awards follow Tabreed being honoured as a recipient of the Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award’s Silver Category in the Services Sector, which is presented to organisations that have demonstrated good practice and performance over the preceding three years. The award was presented during a ceremony held by Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry at its Chambers tower on 22 September, and was accepted by Khalid Abdullah al Marzooqi, CEO of Tabreed, and Jean-Francois Chartrain, Tabreed’s Chief Operating Officer. Al Marzooqi said these awards are hugely important for the company. “They demonstrate that we are excelling, not just when compared to our peers in the Middle East but the entire world. The Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award is a recognition of our positive impact in the UAE and across the region, and it was an honour to be presented with that in the presence of many of this country’s esteemed dignitaries and business leaders.” He added: “As for IDEA, this is also a very impactful association and for Tabreed to be recognised in this way is something everyone in the company can take pride in. Operational excellence is a cornerstone for Tabreed and these awards show, beyond any doubt, that we are highly respected on the world stage by our peers and our customers.” Tabreed’s five-strong delegation at IDEA2021 included Al Marzooqi, Chartrain, Dr Yousif Al Hammadi, Managing Director of Downtown Cooling, Tabreed, Souad Al Serkal, Vice President – Strategic Communications, and Mahra Al Bloushi, operations engineer. As part of the company’s participation in IDEA2021, Al Marzooqi took part in a panel discussion which featured many of the world’s leading figures in district energy and was centred around current and future industry trends and opportunities. Al Serkal, one of the event’s keynote speakers, took to the stage to deliver the address ‘The Impact of Strategic Communications on Performance.’ Having implemented a completely overhauled communications plan at Tabreed in 2019, Al Serkal was able to point to real world data that shows a direct correlation between effective communications and a company’s share price. “By harnessing the power of data and using it to drive our communications strategy,” she said, “Tabreed’s reach increased by 500% globally. Our market share increased in that time, too, but more importantly our share price went up by a staggering 32%. We went through a period of intense growth, so we told the world about it using the most effective possible means, across multiple platforms and media, and analysed the results constantly, tweaking where necessary for maximum impact. And those results speak for themselves.” For more updates from Tabreed, visit www.tabreed.ae
  • calendar_month August 29, 2021
    Tabreed acquires additional stake in exclusive district cooling scheme at Abu Dhabi’s Al Maryah island
    Abu Dhabi, UAE, 29 August 2021: National Central Cooling Company PJSC (DFM: Tabreed) has announced the acquisition of an additional 50% stake in the exclusive 80,000 refrigeration ton district cooling scheme supplying Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, including its major entertainment, hospitality, retail, commercial and residential developments. The acquisition is from joint venture partner, Mubadala Infrastructure Partners (MIP), bringing Tabreed’s ownership to 100%. Tabreed will continue to operate the Al Maryah scheme under a 30-year exclusive concession granted in 2014 by Al Sowwah Square Properties LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company. Having doubled its stake in this landmark district cooling scheme, Tabreed continues to deliver on its growth ambitions in key markets. The deal is the fourth major acquisition for Tabreed in less than two years, following the securing of an 80% stake in Emaar’s Downtown Dubai network and acquiring Aldar’s Saadiyat Island plant and the Masdar City district cooling scheme in Abu Dhabi. Commenting on the deal, Tabreed’s CEO, Khalid Abdullah al Marzooqi, highlighted what it means for the next phase of growth at the company: “Since the start of our operations at Al Maryah island’s district cooling scheme in 2014, with the collaboration of our partners MIP, we have developed the scheme into an industry-leading model of efficiency and reliability, and we view our recent move to acquire the entire operation as the next logical step for our growth plans in Abu Dhabi,” he said. “I am particularly proud of our operations and technical teams, who have pioneered many of the latest technologies and operational philosophies at the Al Maryah scheme and across all of our plants in the region. They have significantly increased overall efficiency and reliability while reducing total carbon emissions for the UAE, further highlighting that district cooling continues to be a key component of the UAE’s energy strategy and for developing nations in the region and internationally.” This new acquisition sees the company extend its reach in supplying high-quality district cooling services to the region’s most notable developments. Al Maryah Island has become the leading business district of Abu Dhabi, home to Abu Dhabi Global Market, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, The Galleria Mall, Rosewood Abu Dhabi and the Four Seasons Hotel.