KeTTHA Finalising Action Plan To Secure Energy Resources

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 19 (Bernama) -- The Energy, Green technology and Water Ministry (KeTTHA) is finalising a National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) to secure Malaysia's energy resources and ensure sustainable development for future generations. Speaking at the "International New York Times:Energy for Tomorrow Conference" here, Wednesday, its Deputy Minister Mahdzir Khalid (two from right) said the action plan would serve as a catalyst for the efficient use of energy in the country. "The plan has identified programmes and strategies for the industrial sector, building or commercial, as well as domestic consumers. "The NEEAP is projected to save energy consumption by up to 50,000 GWh over a ten-year period with a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by 38 million tonnes over the same period," he added. Mahdzir drove home the point that energy efficiency measures must be adopted by all parties in an effort to reduce energy consumption. He said energy efficiency was commonly seen as the most cost-effective and readily-accessible energy saving option available in the industrial sector worldwide. "The efficient use of energy is not only a good practice, but also results in electricity bill savings," he added. He said in an effort to raise awareness and the practice of energy efficiency, the government has also undertaken initiatives to lead by example, in undertaking energy audits and retrofitting selected government buildings. "The Ministry of Finance achieved 17 per cent energy savings after the retrofitting with a return on investment of less than six years," he added. Mahdzir highlighted that the Ministry had also come up with a policy to enable Energy Performance Contracting to be implemented in government facilities in 2013 as a joint-initiative with the Finance Ministry. "In addition, the government also set the indoor temperature at all government facilities to be no less than 24 degrees Celsius in an effort to improve energy efficiency. "The Energy Commission as a regulatory body for the electricity supply industry has developed the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for electrical equipment used in Malaysia. "For a start, five appliances, namely refrigerators, air conditioners, fans, televisions and lights, have been included in the MEPS. "Through the implementation of MEPS, the Commission will ensure that these electrical appliances meet certain energy efficiency standards before being sold in the country," he said. Themed, "Powering Sustainable Development", the two-day conference starting Wednesday, is aimed at providing a critical, international meeting point for some of the most influential figures from the global energy community, including government policy makers, senior business figures and thought leaders. Hosting by The International New York Times, delegates will share best practices and discuss where government policy and business should intersect in the pursuit of a clean energy future for Asia. (photoBernama). -- BERNAMA