Rising global temperatures combined with rapid urbanization are driving an unprecedented surge in cooling demand, which is projected to increase fourfold in the coming decades. While cooling technologies are essential for economic development and human well-being, conventional systems are highly energy-intensive and contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable and climate-friendly cooling solutions, particularly in emerging economies.
The TechEmerge Sustainable Cooling Initiative addressed this challenge through collaboration among innovators, corporates, academic institutions, industry associations, and innovative financing partners. The program supported more than 100 pilot projects, with approximately two-thirds demonstrating substantial benefits, including cost savings of up to 85 percent, reduced energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced water conservation. These outcomes highlight the strong potential of innovative cooling technologies when supported by the right partnerships and enabling conditions.
This report documents the results and lessons learned from the TechEmerge program, offering practical insights and recommendations to scale sustainable cooling solutions. It emphasizes the importance of robust validation systems, adaptable business models, and solutions tailored to local contexts. Through diverse case studies across regions and sectors, the report illustrates how partnerships, capacity building, and innovation can accelerate the adoption of sustainable cooling and contribute to broader climate and development goals.
