Environment Minister Dr. Tamara El-Zein affirmed that improving cooling efficiency in Lebanon is both an environmental and economic priority, given its potential to cut electricity consumption, costs and emissions.
She noted that the cooling and air conditioning sector accounts for about 26 percent of total reported electricity demand.
El-Zein’s remarks came during a ceremony organized by the Ministry of Environment and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to honor 15 technicians recognized for their outstanding performance, out of around 700 technicians and students who benefited from training and capacity-building programs.
National skills to improve cooling efficiency
El-Zein stressed the importance of investing in modern technologies and national skills to address energy and environmental challenges and protect the ozone layer.
She explained that the National Ozone Unit leads policies related to the sector and promotes sustainable practices, especially as the need for cooling rises due to climate change.
For his part, UNDP Resident Representative a.i. Thair Shraideh affirmed that digital solutions help save energy and reduce emissions and costs.
The training covered digital monitoring tools and smart sensors to improve system performance and detect refrigerant gas leaks.
The project also moved to a pilot application in one of Beirut’s major stores, in order to measure results and collect data to support scaling up the experience.
The initiative contributes to enhancing cooling efficiency in Lebanon and supporting its climate commitments, including its Nationally Determined Contribution, the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment.
