Stakeholders Review Minimum Energy Performance for Air Conditioners in Nigeria
By Chioma Eche, Abuja
The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), have reviewed the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for air conditioners in Nigeria.
The review, which supports the Clean Cooling Collaborative (CCC), was done at a technical committee meeting, in Abuja Nigeria’s capital.
The Director-General of ECN, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, said the organisations had been working diligently and collectively to enhance energy efficiency and promote climate-friendly cooling solutions.
Mr. Abdullahi, who disclosed that a stakeholders’ workshop marked the review process of the project on the 15th of May, 2024 also stressed that the review would contribute significantly to Nigeria’s climate goals and sustainable energy access.
According to him, a crucial component of the project is scaling up energy-efficient and climate-friendly cooling in Nigeria’s nationally determined contribution revision.
“These organisations have been diligently working on this project.
“Our collective effort is aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and promoting climate-friendly cooling solutions, thereby contributing significantly to Nigeria’s climate goals and sustainable energy access.
“A crucial component of the project is scaling up energy-efficient and climate-friendly cooling in Nigeria’s nationally determined contribution revision,” he said.
He urged the committee to approach its deliberations with the utmost diligence, expertise, and collaborative spirit, adding that it will not only influence national standards but also contribute to Nigeria’s global commitment to combat climate change.
The role of the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) in coordinating this review is pivotal. The meticulous standard-making process, guided by the SON and supported by the technical expertise of the Nigeria National Committee of International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), ensures that our standards are robust, comprehensive, and aligned with international best practices,” he added.
Earlier, the Director-General of SON, Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, called for adequate preparation for the future to enable Nigeria to participate in continental and global trade.
He said that setting appropriate standards for energy would contribute to global efforts in combating climate change.
According to him, the review will also enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a leader in sustainable energy solutions, potentially attracting more international investment and partnership.
Also, the chairman of Technical Committee on Household Appliances, Nelson Chukwu, called on stakeholders to pay attention to details to reduce energy consumption, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigate climate change.
“As we deliberate, let us keep in mind that energy efficiency is not just a technical requirement but a national imperative. Our standards should encourage innovation and the adoption of advanced technologies that promise not only economic benefits but also environmental stewardship,” he added.
The Energy Efficiency and cooling specialist at UNEP, Marco Duran via Zoom, congratulated SON and ECN for their effort in taking this process forward.
He disclosed that there is a need to reduce Energy emissions by 47 percent by 2030, when energy-efficient appliances are the norm in the country.
