Ghana gets support to phase-out energy inefficient air conditioners

The Green Cooling Initiative (GCI) is an international forum that connects policy-makers, technology providers and consumers, research institutes and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the field of refrigeration and air conditioning. Three pioneer countries (Ghana, Kenya and Seychelles) are offered policy advice and help to develop efficient processes and structures thanks to GCI.

In this context, the German government is partnering Ghana to reduce or phase-out all environmentally unfriendly air-conditioners that contribute significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions in the country. Indeed, according to experts, existing HFC air-conditioners in Ghana are outdated and use low energy efficiency technologies.

Thanks to this partnership, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) presented at the end of September 380 split air conditioners (ACs) and spare parts that operate on hydrocarbon refrigerant R290 (propane) to the EPA, who, in turn, handed them over to two firms; Electroland Ghana Limited and Flexi-Space Limited, dealers in air-conditioning and electronic appliances, to be the first to deal in their importation and services.

According to Ms. Nicola Nana Yaa Hodasi, the Political and Economic Affairs Officer of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, if nothing was to be done, the emissions from air conditioners in Ghana are expected to triple by 2030.

“During their life span, the 380 split air-conditioners will prevent greenhouse emission of more than 10,000 kilograms from the outside, thus contributing towards Ghana’s national climate target,” she said.