Strengthening Trinidad and Tobago’s Cold Chain Through Energy Efficiency

As part of the GEF 6 Energy Efficiency Project, chiller equipment at the National Agricultural Marketing and Development Corporation (NAMDEVCO) has been replaced with more energy-efficient technology, supporting improved performance and greater sustainability across the cold chain.

The initiative demonstrates how investments in energy efficiency (EE) can deliver multiple benefits. More efficient refrigeration equipment can reduce electricity consumption and operating costs, improve system reliability, and help facilities maintain the temperatures needed to safely preserve fresh produce. At the same time, lower energy demand contributes to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and supports Trinidad and Tobago’s transition toward a more sustainable and climate-resilient economy. 

The upgrade also supports the objectives of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, which has evolved to address the climate impact of certain refrigerants through the Kigali Amendment. By promoting efficient refrigeration and the transition toward more climate-friendly technologies, projects like this help advance both ozone protection and climate action.

For NAMDEVCO, the benefits extend beyond the equipment itself—helping to build a more efficient, reliable and environmentally responsible cold chain while demonstrating the value of energy-efficient technologies in reducing energy use and environmental impacts.

Equipment Handover to NESC Tobago

 

The handover of Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) equipment to the National Energy Skills Center in Tobago represents an important investment in strengthening the technical capacity and competency of RAC technicians. The equipment will provide technicians with practical, hands-on opportunities to develop and enhance their skills in the installation, servicing, troubleshooting, maintenance and safe handling of modern, energy-efficient RAC systems, including equipment using lower-GWP refrigerants. This initiative will support the application of knowledge gained through formal training, promote adherence to good servicing practices and international standards, and improve the quality and efficiency of RAC services in Tobago. By providing access to appropriate tools and equipment, the initiative will contribute to building a more skilled, confident and environmentally responsible RAC workforce capable of supporting the transition to more sustainable cooling technologies.