- In collaboration with ECN, UNEP and with support from CCC, SON spearheads the initiative.
- On September 21, 2023, SON commissioned an AC testing chamber in Lagos for quality standards and reduction of energy costs.
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has commenced the review of the country’s Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for air conditioners.
This initiative, spearheaded by the SON in collaboration with the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), with support from the Clean Cooling Collaborative, aims to enhance energy efficiency nationwide.
The director-general of SON, Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, reiterated the importance of updating MEPS to reflect current technological advancements during a one-day technical committee (TC) review meeting held in Abuja. This effort aims to position Nigeria competitively on the global stage.
Okeke stated, “This revision is not just about meeting today’s needs but anticipating and preparing for the future to enable Nigeria to participate in continental and global trade—the AfCFTA and WTO.
“By setting appropriate standards for energy efficiency, we are not only contributing to global efforts to combat climate change but also enhancing Nigeria’s reputation as a leader in sustainable energy solutions, potentially attracting more international investments and partnerships.”
According to SON, this initiative marks a significant step in Nigeria’s commitment to improving energy efficiency. In addition, it targets reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering sustainable economic growth through updated air conditioner standards.
This initiative is part of SON’s efforts to improve energy efficiency. Last year, SON commissioned an AC testing chamber in Lagos to ensure that products manufactured in the country or imported meet quality standards and efficiency, helping consumers reduce and save energy costs.
On his part, the ECN director general, Dr Abdullahi Mustapha, explained that the focus of the TC gathering was to review the MEPS for air conditioners in Nigeria, a crucial component of the project, “Scaling Up Energy-Efficient and Climate-Friendly Cooling in Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contribution Revision.”
He stressed that this collective effort aims to enhance energy efficiency and promote climate-friendly cooling solutions, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s climate goals and sustainable energy access.
“The inception of this review process was marked by a successful stakeholders’ workshop on May 15, 2024, held here in the commission. The discussions and recommendations from that workshop underscored the urgent need to revise and elevate the current MEPS for air conditioners in Nigeria.
“Today, we continue this journey, further solidifying our commitment to energy efficiency and environmental stewardship,” he added.
Furthermore, the DG highlighted the pivotal role of SON in coordinating this review, supported by the technical expertise of the Nigeria National Committee of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), ensuring that the standards are robust, comprehensive, and aligned with international best practices.