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Fungai Lupande
Eswatini is eager to collaborate with Zimbabwe on energy efficiency projects, as regional cooperation in the energy sector begins to yield positive results.
Speaking during a Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) workshop held in Bulawayo, energy efficiency expert Mr Mzwandile Thwala said energy efficiency projects will benefit both countries.
He said collaboration represents a significant step towards deepening bilateral relations between Eswatini and Zimbabwe.
Mr Thwala said MEPS for cooling systems are projected to save the region eight terawatt hours (TWh) in electricity consumption by 2040.
By taking this route, the region could save approximately US$840 million on electricity bills, while avoiding 6,5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.
He noted that Eswatini has had its national energy efficiency policy in place for six years.
The southern African nation has a local manufacturer of refrigerators that also supplies South Africa, with the products meeting MEPS standards.
Mr Thwala said if countries continue with the “business as usual” approach, electricity consumption is expected to rise by 87 percent by 2040.
Online Reporter