The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy (MCCEE), under the Strengthening the Implementation of Energy Efficiency Programs in the Cooling Sector project funded by United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and with support from USAID’s South Asia Regional Energy Partnership (SAREP), successfully conducted a training workshop on the Hakathari Program. The workshop aimed to enhance importers’ and retailers’ understanding of the program and its benefits in promoting energy-efficient appliances.
The Strengthening the Implementation of Energy Efficiency Programs in the Cooling Sector project is jointly implemented by the Energy Department and the Ozone Unit of the Ministry. Its objective is to promote low-GWP refrigerants under the Hakathari Program, encouraging consumers to make climate-friendly choices when purchasing air conditioners and refrigerators.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Muaviyath Mohamed, Minister of State for Climate Change, Environment, and Energy, expressed gratitude for USAID’s continuous support and emphasized the Hakathari Program’s role in promoting energy efficiency in the Maldives.
USAID, in collaboration with the Ministry, launched SAREP Maldives on 6th August 2024. This partnership aims to enhance energy security, expand energy access, and promote regional cooperation across South Asia. In the Maldives, SAREP focuses on advancing sustainable energy solutions and improving energy efficiency, aligning with the nation’s commitment to achieving affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all.
USAID SAREP energy efficiency team based in India also joined the workshop.
The workshop was conducted by:
- Rizna Ahmed Rasheed, Project Coordinator, Energy Efficiency Section, MCCEE, presented – Introduction to Standards & Labelling for Energy Efficiency and the Need for an Energy Efficiency Labelling Program.
- Mohamed Inaz, Country Manager, USAID SAREP Maldives, presented – Maldives Energy Efficiency Labelling Program – Hakathari and Implementation Framework.
- Aminath Seeza, Assistant Director, Energy Efficiency Section, MCCEE, led a session on Monitoring, Verification & Enforcement and Support to EE Labelling Programme Implementation.
The Hakathari Program provides a simple, easy-to-understand indication of the energy-saving potential of electrical appliances through a five-star rating system displayed on the product labels. The more stars, the higher the energy efficiency of the appliance. The program aims to:
- Encourage consumers to purchase energy-efficient appliances.
- Help consumers make informed choices and reduce household electricity bills.
- Motivate importers and manufacturers to promote energy-efficient products in the Maldivian market.
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and progress towards a sustainable future.
Currently, 60 models are registered under the Hakathari Program. To learn more about the Hakathari Program, visit Hakathari Program Information.
