Thailand receives $5m grant to reduce HFC emissions

THAILAND: The World Bank has provided Thailand with a grant of $5m to fund projects to reduce HFC emissions.

The money from the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol will assist Thailand in its drive to introduce environment-friendly production into its industries.

Thailand is the second-largest producer of air conditioners in the world, manufacturing approximately 16 million air conditioners per year, 90% of which are for export.

Having made great strides to phase out ozone-depleting substances as a member of the Montreal Protocol, Thailand’s next step will be ratifying the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol to phase down HFCs.

The World Bank will support the Kigali Amendment by helping countries, including Thailand, phase down HFCs and improve energy efficiency in air conditioning and refrigeration, resulting in reduced emissions, decreased peak demand for electricity, and lower consumer electricity costs.

The Bank also aims to establish and strengthen networks among key stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation, including raising consumers’ awareness on how to properly maintain their appliances by having only qualified technicians provide regular services to their equipment. This is seen as a way of not only extending the service life of their appliances but also a means to maximise their energy efficiency.