Market news, 31 January 2025
IIR Participates in Stakeholder Consultation on AHEAD Program in Delhi
Date:
04 February 2025
Yosr Allouche, Director General of the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR), participated in the National Stakeholder Consultation for the Alleviating Heat Stress by Enhancing Production of Affordable Cooling Devices (AHEAD) Program in Delhi, India. The event, organized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in collaboration with The World Bank Group, focused on sustainable and affordable solutions to meet India's growing cooling demands.
The consultation gathered industry leaders, policymakers, and R&D experts to discuss India's cooling sector, assess market and technology landscapes, identify challenges, and propose solutions for an energy-efficient refrigeration and cooling ecosystem. These discussions will shape the $700 million AHEAD Program.
Addressing Cooling Needs
The AHEAD Program aims to support the local design and production of energy-efficient room air conditioners, fans, district cooling systems, and cold rooms. The initiative is essential for ensuring human comfort, safe food storage, and healthcare accessibility in a country facing rising temperatures and population growth.
IIR’s Role in the Discussion
Yosr Allouche actively contributed to the dialogue and delivered closing remarks alongside DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Global Infrastructure and AI Policy Leader at the World Bank Abhas Jha, and DPIIT Joint Secretary Sanjiv Singh.
In her address, Allouche highlighted India’s long-standing involvement in refrigeration advancements as an IIR member since 1965. She emphasized the need for strong R&D efforts to:
- Drive innovation in energy-efficient appliances,
- Strengthen local manufacturing,
- Meet essential refrigeration needs,
- Ensure compliance with international standards, and
- Position India as a global leader in the refrigeration and cooling sector.
Commitment to Sustainability
The IIR continues to support initiatives like the AHEAD Program, reinforcing its mission to promote sustainable and energy-efficient refrigeration solutions. As India advances its cooling strategies, the IIR remains committed to collaboration in building a robust, inclusive, and sustainable refrigeration ecosystem.
