The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry today launched the 2023 to 2027 National Cooling Action Plan for Kenya (NCAP).
NCAP is designed to accelerate Kenya’s shift to sustainable cooling systems through transition to high energy efficiency appliances, use of natural refrigerants, and enhanced access to agricultural cold chain solutions.
Speaking during the launch at a Nairobi hotel, State Department for Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary (PS) Eng Festus K Ng’eno said the National Cooling Action Plan 2022 aims to increase the performance and efficiency of energy consuming cooling alliances and transition the cooling sector to refrigerants with low environmental Impacts among others.
Ng’eno said normal cooling equipment directly contributes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbon (HFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFCs) potent greenhouse gasses and ozone depleting substances used in refrigeration and air conditioning.
“In order to avoid these emissions, the government has embarked on a transition to sustainable cooling practices through the development of the National Cooling Action Plan (NCAP) that aims to increase access to energy efficient cooling solutions with low environmental impacts”, he said.
Emerging data shows that Kenya’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) has committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 32% or 143MT of CO2 equivalent by 2030, and therefore, providing conventional cooling services poses a challenge to attainment of this ambitious target.
The PS also said that Green Cooling solutions with natural refrigerants is the way forward, because they are eco-friendly, ozone-friendly and have minimal impact on global warming.
“The National Cooling Action Plan is all about creating the right conditions for the growth of the sustainable cold chain market and by providing financial incentives for cold storage systems and making sure everyone understands the incredible benefits of zero emission cold chains”, said PS.
He at the same time urged all stakeholders to actively engage and collaborate in implementing the National Cooling Action Plan (NCAP).
By Lucy Gitei
