A high-level delegation from several African countries, including Kenya and Ghana, visited India in October 2025 to explore cooperation on sustainable cooling and energy efficiency. Supported by the Mission Efficiency framework and partners including SEforALL, Daikin India, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), the three-day South-South exchange focused on policy, technology and market mechanisms for scaling efficient cooling solutions.
The visit took place against a backdrop of growing cooling demand in Africa. Currently, 13% of African households have access to air conditioning, while cooling demand could account for up to 60% of peak energy loads by 2040. According to the exchange discussions, sustainable cooling measures could reduce emissions by 68% by 2050, while also contributing to job creation, food security and healthcare improvements.
The delegation toured Daikin’s manufacturing facility in India, where participants reviewed the production of low-GWP refrigerants such as R-32 and observed circular economy practices. The visit also included the company’s Center of Excellence, which provides technician training and promotes female participation in the cooling sector workforce.
Policy and market implementation were key components of the program. During roundtables with BEE and EESL, delegates examined India’s National Cooling Action Plan and financing approaches such as the UJALA program. Discussions covered bulk procurement mechanisms and Energy Service Company (ESCO) contracts, with the aim of supporting the development of scalable and bankable cooling projects in African countries.
The exchange also addressed workforce development and standards alignment. Participants discussed the establishment of localized Centers of Excellence and the harmonization of regional standards to support long-term sector growth. The initiative emphasized collaboration between emerging economies as a pathway to advancing climate resilience, technology sharing and blended finance solutions in the cooling sector.
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