Centro Studi Galileo (CSG) made a significant contribution to the 46th Meeting of the Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG46) of the Montreal Protocol by organizing two vital side events focused on enhancing energy efficiency in cooling systems and promoting best practices for equipment management.
Case Studies in Energy-Efficient Cooling Systems
On July 10, 2024, CSG hosted an event showcasing successful case studies of high-energy-efficiency cooling systems. Industry experts discussed the importance of maintaining energy efficiency throughout the entire lifecycle of refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump (RACHP) systems to combat climate change.
- Prof. Fabio Polonara (UNEP TEAP-RTOC) emphasized the role of energy-efficient cooling in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Yosr Allouche (International Institute of Refrigeration) stressed the need for low GWP refrigerants due to the significant electricity demand in the sector.
- Adlain Eyarmwen Nkie Akan (Vice President of U-3ARC) addressed how improved maintenance and energy-efficient designs impact energy consumption and sustainability in Africa.
- Marco Buoni (Centro Studi Galileo and AREA) shared insights into technological advancements and the importance of regular maintenance for sustained energy efficiency.
- Rajendra Shende (Green TERRE Foundation) concluded with reflections on future policy implications, highlighting the necessity to phase out fossil fuels and double energy efficiency by 2030, in line with COP28 decisions.
The discussions underscored the urgent need to improve global cooling efficiency, with the International Energy Agency (IEA) predicting that by 2050, air conditioners' average efficiency must improve by at least 50% to achieve net-zero emissions.
‘Next Practices’ vs. ‘Best Practices’ in Training, Servicing, and Maintenance
On July 11, 2024, CSG hosted another crucial event comparing ‘Next Practices’ and ‘Best Practices’ in the RACHP sector. ‘Next Practices’ advocate for a proactive and innovative approach, aiming for continuous improvement and aligning with the Paris Agreement goals to double energy efficiency by 2030.
Key discussions included:
- Rajendra Shende (Green TERRE Foundation) opened with a video introduction.
- Marco Buoni (Centro Studi Galileo and AREA) introduced a new EU training and certification scheme for alternative refrigerants.
- Khaled Klaly (UNEP) discussed innovative methods and standards in HVAC service practices.
- Yosr Allouche shared a country-specific approach to building national capacity in refrigeration.
- Madi Sakandé (U-3ARC) highlighted challenges and potential solutions for maintaining energy efficiency in Africa.
Both events highlighted the importance of continuous improvement in energy efficiency, effective training for technicians, and increased consumer awareness. The participation of Centro Studi Galileo and its CEO Marco Buoni at OEWG46 emphasized the significance of these practices for environmental sustainability, aligning with the Kigali Amendment to reduce high-GWP refrigerants and improve energy efficiency in cooling systems.
