The Ministry of Climate Change, Energy and Environment has announced plans to expand the Hakathari programme, an energy efficiency labelling initiative, to include equipment used in government projects. The programme aligns with national goals to promote sustainable practices and reduce energy consumption.
Hakathari is designed to provide consumers with a clear understanding of the energy-saving potential of appliances at the point of purchase. The initiative uses a five-star labelling system, with higher ratings indicating greater energy efficiency and savings.
Initially focused on household appliances like air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines, the programme is being extended to cover water heaters, water pumps, and fans. Minister of Climate Change, Energy and Environment, Ibrahim Thoriq, revealed plans to further expand the programme to include equipment used in government projects.
Speaking at an inception workshop held in partnership with USAID’s South Asia Regional Energy Partnership (SAREP), Minister Thoriq stressed the programme’s importance in reducing energy consumption and achieving sustainability goals.
“We are also working at the policy level to change the rules for public procurement in the future so that the items used in public procurement are also sourced through this energy-efficient programme,” Minister Thoriq explained.
He also noted that this expansion would help reduce public sector electricity costs, contributing to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s goal of converting 33 per cent of the Maldives’ energy generation to renewable sources by 2028.
In addition to encouraging energy efficiency in the public sector, the programme aims to transform the market by motivating importers and manufacturers to prioritise energy-efficient technologies. This effort is expected to lower greenhouse gas emissions and drive the Maldives closer to a sustainable future.
Hakathari’s ongoing evolution underscores the government’s commitment to empowering consumers, reducing energy costs, and promoting sustainability in every sector.
