VATIS UPDATE Article

Saijo Denki, Thailand, in partnership with the World Bank Group and the Montreal Protocol Multilateral Fund (MLF), has launched a new technology for air conditioners that is friendly to the ozone layer and reduces greenhouse gas emissions and saves energy. The new refrigerant known as R-32 does not deplete the stratospheric ozone layer and also cuts greenhouse gas impacts in residential air conditioners by one-third. If similar air conditioning technology were widely adopted in other markets, it could help countries to significantly meet their climate goals.

“We welcome the initiative of the Thai private sector in turning the challenges of protecting the global environment into business opportunities. The success of re-designed R-32 air conditioners is testament to the strong policy and leadership of the Thai Government to protect the environment and strengthen private sector innovation. Countries such as Thailand can consider adopting a procurement policy that demands or favors the use of ozone and climate friendly products, in order to promote the further development and use of such products,” said Ulrich Zachau, World Bank Country Director for Thailand.

According to Saijo Denki, redesigned R-32 air-conditioners are 5 to 10 percent more energy efficient and have a cooling capacity that is 10 percent higher than older models. With this technology breakthrough, the Thai company is in a good position to develop higher energy efficient and cost competitive products, while consumers will benefit from reduced energy costs when using these new products. Most importantly, the new models do not consume ozone depleting substances and do not adversely affect the climate.