On this World Refrigeration Day, a global celebration uniting industrial stakeholders and institutions to advocate for a safer, more efficient, and sustainable cooling sector, we are reminded of the critical role cooling technologies play in our everyday lives and their profound impact on the planet. By promoting energy efficiency in cooling, we can address pressing environmental challenges while enhancing global sustainability efforts. As the world experiences a growing demand for cooling solutions, the significance of energy efficiency in this sector becomes increasingly evident. Cooling is responsible for 15% of global energy consumption, with air conditioning alone accounting for 10% of global electricity use. In 2019, space cooling emitted approximately 1 GtCO2 and contributed nearly 8.5% to total final electricity consumption. This demand is expected to grow dramatically, particularly in regions such as the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC), where electricity consumption for air conditioners and refrigeration appliances is projected to more than double by 2040.

Cooling plays a crucial role in achieving numerous Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is indispensable for preserving food, maintaining vaccine stability, and ensuring worker productivity. However, the challenge lies not only in meeting the growing demand for cooling, but also in doing it sustainably. Transforming markets to prioritize energy-efficient cooling appliances that use low Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerants is essential. This approach will slow the rise in electricity demand, support the performance of the grid, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support global climate goals while fostering inclusive and sustainable economic development.

Outdated cooling technologies, particularly air conditioning and refrigeration systems, often consume two to three times more energy than modern, efficient alternatives. Despite their potential, key barriers such as limited information on product performance, inadequate policies, higher upfront costs, and restricted access to financing hinder the adoption of these technologies. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort, blending the promotion of sustainable technologies with supportive policies and financial incentives.

In regions like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), cooling represents a critical opportunity for energy efficiency. In countries such as Nigeria, high electricity demand during peak periods could be alleviated by adopting energy-efficient cooling technologies. These advancements also promise to enhance food security by reducing post-harvest losses through better storage solutions. Furthermore, decentralized renewable energy systems can extend cooling access to rural areas, opening new possibilities for development.

Similarly, in the EAC region, factors such as population growth, urbanization, and improved living standards are driving an increasing need for cooling services. A U4E EELA market study revealed that inefficient air conditioners and refrigerators dominate many EAC countries. Transitioning to energy-efficient appliances could save approximately 3.2 TWh of energy—equivalent to the capacity of a 500MW power station—and reduce CO2 emissions by 2.3 million tonnes by 2040. This shift could also cut electricity bills by about USD 366 million, demonstrating the tangible benefits of stringent energy efficiency policies.

The SADC region, too, holds enormous potential. By transitioning to energy-efficient cooling appliances, the region could save 9.4 TWh of energy—the capacity of four 500MW power stations—and reduce CO2 emissions by 6.9 million tonnes by 2040. This transformation could also save consumers USD 760 million in electricity costs. Countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa stand out as key contributors to these potential savings, underlining the region’s leadership in advancing energy efficiency initiatives.

Since 2019, the EELA Program has been at the forefront of addressing these challenges by developing and implementing harmonized regional Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for cooling appliances, including refrigerators and air conditioners. These standards, approved by SADCSTAN in November 2023, with further progress underway in the EAC, establish critical benchmarks for energy efficiency. By encouraging the adoption of high-performing appliances, EELA is driving reductions in electricity consumption, lowering carbon emissions, and fostering sustainable economic growth. The program is also advancing the development of harmonized energy efficiency labels across the EAC and SADC regions, empowering consumers with the information needed to make informed purchasing decisions. Additionally, EELA is developing a one-stop shop, the Industrial Clean-Tech Platform, to facilitate the distribution of MEPs-compliant, energy-efficient components, equipment, and solutions.These efforts underscore the pivotal role of MEPS and energy labeling in transforming markets and enhancing the cooling sector’s sustainability. 

On this World Refrigeration Day, the imperative to embrace energy-efficient cooling technologies is indisputable. By fostering coordinated efforts, adopting supportive policies, and leveraging technological innovations, regions such as ECOWAS, EAC, and SADC can overcome their unique challenges. In doing so, they can unlock substantial energy savings, reduce environmental impact, and significantly improve the quality of life for millions.