District cooling is a highly efficient system that provides cooling to multiple buildings by distributing chilled water—or another refrigerant—from a centralized plant through a network of insulated underground pipes.
This system is widely used in urban areas, commercial districts, and large complexes to meet cooling needs in a sustainable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective way. By producing cooling centrally, it eliminates the need for individual air conditioning units in each building, thereby reducing energy consumption, maintenance costs, and greenhouse gas emissions. The closed-loop distribution network supplies chilled water for space or process cooling. In contrast, the warmed water is returned to the central plant to be cooled again, ensuring a continuous and efficient cycle. This approach enhances energy efficiency and supports urban sustainability by lowering peak electricity demand, easing pressure on power grids, and improving cooling reliability.