SWITCH-Asia

The Challenge

Air conditioners (ACs) represent close to 50% of household electricity consumption in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). Currently, the market share of ACs with an energy efficiency ratio (EER) at or above 3.2 (which is China’s EER for Minimum Energy Performance Standard/MEPS) is only around 25%. Assuming all ASEAN countries adopt a MEPS of 3.2, the electricity consumption of residential sector would be reduced by 5 373 GWh per annum, corresponding to a reduction of 2.7 million tonnes of CO2 emissions per annum.

The Objectives

The ASEAN SHINE project sought to phase out energy inefficient ACs and increase the market share of more highly efficient ACs within the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) region. This led to a reduction in electricity consumption and GHG emissions, as well as an enhanced regional market integration through harmonised standards. The specific project objectives included:

• Harmonising standards for testing methods;
• Developing a regional policy roadmap;
• Developing national policy and regulatory roadmaps for an increase of minimum energy performance standards;
• Building capacity of testing laboratories;
• Building capacity of local AC manufacturers (SMEs);
• Changing consumer purchasing attitudes in favour of more highly efficient ACs.

The Way Forward

• Harmonised Standard for All ASEAN Countries
• Establishment of a Regional Policy Roadmap
• Direct Scaling up to Efficient Lighting
• Expanding to Other Household Appliances
• Creating Country Chapters
• Conducting Awareness Campaigns
• Creating the Right Conditions