Nepal Dairy Sector Unites to Boost Energy Efficiency
Kathmandu – Nepal’s dairy industry faces formidable challenges due to its energy-intensive processes, such as pasteurization, chilling, and distribution, which demand significant electrical and thermal energy consumption.
In response to the mounting energy demands and environmental concerns, the Nepal Dairy Association (NDA) partnered with Swisscontact/CASA Programme to organize a pivotal event titled “Energy Efficiency in the Dairy Sector.” Held on February 23rd the gathering brought together key stakeholders, recognizing the pressing need for collective action to enhance energy efficiency across the dairy value chain.
These practices not only drive up operational costs but also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation.
During the event, stakeholders engaged in enlightening discussions and strategic sessions aimed at uncovering practical solutions to enhance energy efficiency in dairy operations.
Prahlad Dahal, President of the Nepal Dairy Association, advocated for energy audits as a means to achieve substantial cost reductions, highlighting potential savings of up to 50% for dairy facilities.
Subha Laxmi Shrestha, representing the The Alternative Energy Promotion Centre (AEPC), underscored the importance of raising awareness and integrating policies to ensure the effective implementation of energy-efficient practices.
Moreover, Manoj Yadav from Suryodaya Dairy emphasized the need to consider energy efficiency measures during the establishment of dairy factories and address the prevailing lack of awareness regarding the payback period of investments in energy-efficient technologies.
Dinesh Dulal from NMB Bank shared valuable insights into past energy efficiency efforts, focusing on recommendations with short payback periods and available financing opportunities for energy-efficient investments.
The event served as a pivotal platform for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and collaboration among stakeholders, all with the shared goal of promoting sustainable practices and mitigating the environmental impact of dairy operations.
By fostering cooperation and innovation, initiatives like these represent crucial strides toward cultivating a more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable dairy sector in Nepal.
Looking ahead, the insights and recommendations generated from this event are poised to inform future strategies and initiatives aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and driving positive change within Nepal’s dairy industry.
