The ECOWAS initiative for refrigerators and air conditioners (ECOFRIDGES) is a joint project of the governments of Ghana and Senegal, the United for Efficiency (UNEP U4E) initiative of the United Nations Environment Program and the Agency Basel for Sustainable Energy (BASE). In collaboration with regional and local partners, ECOFRIDGES aims to accelerate the adoption of household refrigerators and air conditioners for energy-efficient and climate-friendly environments, saving consumers money on electricity bills, alleviating demand in the electricity sector and mitigating the impact on the environment. A cornerstone of ECOFRIDGES’ activities in Ghana is Green On-Wage (GO) financial mechanism to help make these cooling products more affordable.

Through ECOFRIDGES GO, local financial institutions aim to unlock at least $ 11 million in funding in Ghana by 2023 to support the purchase of more than 15,000 more sustainable cooling appliances and encourage the replacement of existing old equipment. The project includes the proper collection and disposal of used appliances, product testing, capacity building and promotion and awareness campaigns. It sets stringent energy performance requirements and limits on refrigerants of participating products to maintain a limit on greenhouse gas emissions.

With the ECOFRIDGES GO model, eligible salaried employees can access a 0% interest loan that is “in pay” as the repayment is deducted from the paycheck each month during the repayment period. The loan finances the purchase of a suitable refrigerator or air conditioner. Partner banks offering loans include CalBank Plc, Ecobank Ghana Limited, or Letshego Ghana Savings and Loans Plc.

Participating suppliers include Ederick Limited, Electroland Ghana Limited, Hisense, Nesstra Ghana Limited and Services Merchandize Limited. The suppliers will deliver the new device to the customer. They also facilitate the collection and recycling of used operational products of participating customers who wish to exchange one for a voucher valid for future use at the store.

Efficient products make cooling more accessible and, in turn, keep indoor spaces more comfortable and food fresh and nutritious, helping to cope with the consequences and restrictions of Covid-19. 

ECOFRIDGES is made possible thanks to funding from the Kigali Cooling Efficiency Program and in-kind contributions from the Ghanaian Energy Commission, the Environmental Protection Agency and the project partners.

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