Maldives Expands Energy Efficiency Programme to New Appliances

The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy (MCCEE), in collaboration with USAID’s South Asia Regional Energy Partnership (SAREP), launched the expansion of the Hakathari Program during an inception workshop today.

The Hakathari Program, which currently covers air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines, provides consumers with a clear indication of an appliance’s energy-saving potential through a five-star rating label affixed at the point of purchase. To date, 71 appliance models, including seven air conditioner brands, have been registered under the programme.

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As part of its expansion, the programme will now include water heaters, water pumps, and fans. The criteria for labelling these additional appliances will be developed using market data, details on product origins, and existing standards and testing frameworks, according to the Ministry. USAID, through SAREP, will provide technical expertise and resources to support this initiative.

Today, the Ministry, in partnership with USAID’s South Asia Regional Energy Partnership (SAREP), conducted a stakeholder consultation on Energy Efficiency (EE) Labelling Regulation.

The proposed regulation, being addresses under Clause 57(A) of the Energy Act, aims to create a… pic.twitter.com/e8ZmqcPjcY— Min. of Climate Change, Environment and Energy (@MoEnvmv) January 20, 2025

His Excellency Thoriq Ibrahim, Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy, emphasised the critical role of energy efficiency in achieving the Maldives’ climate objectives. “The Hakathari Program has been steadily growing and is important in transitioning to cleaner energy systems. Expanding the program to new appliances will further strengthen our national efforts toward energy efficiency and sustainability,” the Minister said. He also announced plans to amend public procurement regulations to prioritise Hakathari-labelled appliances for government use.

The workshop saw the participation of Ms. Apurva Chaturvedi, Senior Regional Clean Energy Specialist at USAID/India, alongside USAID SAREP experts, government stakeholders, registered importers, and retailers. Discussions during the event focused on market assessments and methodologies for formulating energy efficiency labelling standards for the newly included appliances.

The Hakathari Program is a key component of the Maldives’ broader strategy to promote sustainable energy use and reduce overall energy demand.