Expert Advice and Training Services on EE Labelling Programmes and MEPS for Appliances and Energy Systems

In Cuba, 95% of generated electricity are from fossil fuels, some of which are domestically sourced (46.1%) while others are imported (53.9%). In 2019, this resulted in an electricity grid CO2 emissions factor of 0.673 tCO2/MWh. Residential electricity rates are regulated and increased incrementally with consumption levels, reflecting the social nature of these rates and the goal of promoting energy savings.

Cuban public authorities are very interested in developing and implementing mechanisms to drive market change and promote the adoption of energy efficient technologies. These include energy efficiency labelling (EEL) programs and minimum energy efficiency standards (MEPS) for household appliances and other energy-consuming technologies and systems.

To achieve these goals, UNIDO has hired Econoler to develop and enhance the capacity and knowledge of the National Office for the Rational Use of Energy and the Ministry of Energy and Mines of Cuba. The focus is on developing and strengthening the normative framework and technical regulations for EEL and MEPS particularly for lighting, industrial refrigeration, steam systems, and pump systems.

The mandate includes the following activities:

• Developing and delivering a five-day training sessions on MEPS and EEL, gender considerations, and an introduction to energy savings measurement and verification for the National Office for the Rational Use of Energy (Oficina Nacional para el Uso Racional de la Energía, ONURE). This training has been delivered to Cuban stakeholders.

• Developing and delivering a five-day training session on the RETScreen Expert software and advanced energy savings measurement and verification for the ONURE. This training has also already been delivered.

• Providing direct expert advice related to MEPS and EEL, laboratory testing, and measurement and verification to ONURE and UNIDO specialists. This activity includes a review of draft regulations to establish MEPS for the prioritized technologies to enable a committee to analyze and revise the MEPS prior to publication.

Upon project completion, ONURE will have acquired greater knowledge and expertise to finalize the draft MEPS regulations for Cuba, utilize the RETScreen Expert software, and perform energy savings measurement and verification. The regulations will be developed based on best international practices and insights gained from the experience of the consulting team. It is anticipated that this mandate will significantly contribute to the efforts of Cuba in fulfilling its commitments to combating climate change.