UNIDO report seeks to boost cooling efficiency

USA: The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) has produced new guidance for refrigeration manufacturers seeking to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

This new study sets out a methodology and tools for manufacturers to understand cost and net benefits for different energy efficient refrigeration design options and the required manufacturing line upgrades. It is funded by the Kigali Cooling Efficiency Programme (K-CEP) and supported by International Copper Association (ICA).

The Kigali Cooling Efficiency Programme aims to help increase energy efficiency of cooling in developing countries. This K-CEP funded project looked at manufacturers in five countries (Ecuador, Guatemala, Lebanon, Morocco, and Uganda) and characterised them using a Manufacturer Development Index (MDI) which takes into account development capacity, production volume, proximity to and relationship with component’s original equipment manufacturers (OEM), market maturity, country’s energy efficiency score.

Manufacturers are now able to ascertain which changes to their offerings can be taken cost effectively. The simulation software, CERA, gives visual modelling of the changes in components, the benefit in energy efficiency and the cost involved in promoting green design and thus keeping the product competitive in the long term. A record of the changes made, enable scenarios and costings to be formed into a “board room ready” style presentation.

“Many companies in Article 5 countries are missing suitable guidance and opportunities for knowledge transfer when trying to meet global climate goals. This guidance document introduces practical ways to calculate and cost the changes needed for their product and factory footprint to comply with both international agreements and national legislation” said IINO Fukuya from the Department of Environment UNIDO, Vienna, Austria.

The study will be launched through an ASHRAE-hosted webinar tomorrow (July 22) which will present the outcomes of the project and provide insight into how to use the guidance document.

Recordings will be available on the ASHRAE Global Training Centre website following the webinar.