Overview:
Studies show that transmission of viruses, such as the coronavirus causing COVID-19, can be prompted by central air-conditioning systems (CAC). In developing member countries (DMC), the risks of virus transmission are higher because of poor hygiene including the use of old air-conditioning equipment, lack of regular maintenance, and overcrowding in closed spaces. Additionally, inefficient CAC systems in many DMCs account for up to 50% of energy consumption in public buildings.
Advanced
air-conditioning systems with energy-saving technologies used in combination
with demand-side management techniques could bring up to 45% energy savings.
CACs also rely heavily on hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), a greenhouse gas potentially thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide. Proper
management of HFCs is critical to addressing greenhouse gas emissions from CAC
systems.
The project supported by Asian Development Bank (ADB) is to implement knowledge and support Technical Assistance (TA), Regional Support to Build Disease Resilient and Energy Efficient Centralized Air-conditioning Systems, to promote disease-resilient clean energy development in developing member countries (DMCs) of ADB. The TA adjuncts ADB's assistance programs to help its developing members manage the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change mitigation programs.
The DMCs supported by TA to improve energy efficiency, mitigate the risks of virus transmission, and ensure safe working conditions in public buildings by deploying efficient, clean, and smart centralized air-conditioning (CAC) systems. The TA team to assess the energy efficiency and virus transmission risks of CAC systems; make appropriate recommendations; and pilot the operation of smart, energy-efficient, and disease-resilient CAC systems in selected DMCs.