Stelco managers gain energy efficiency expertise

The State Electric Company of Maldives (Stelco) is actively pursuing energy efficiency (EE) options to help reduce rising electricity generation costs due to the high cost of petroleum-based fuel used for power generation in the Maldives.

It has already implemented a program to identify sectors where demand-side management (DSM) and EE initiatives can be effective.

In support of STELCO's efforts, SARI/Energy recently organised a training program on "Utility Demand-Side Management and Energy Service" in Sri Lanka. Hosted by Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), Energy Conservation Fund of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka Standards Institution, National Engineering and Research Development Centre and LTL Energy (Pvt.) Ltd., the five-day intensive energy management program enabled STELCO senior management to gain a better understanding of utility DSM, including:

* Utility-driven DSM planning and implementation

* Standards and labeling for end-use appliances

* Energy efficiency (EE) lighting programs

* EE building codes

* Load research

* Awareness/outreach programs

* Energy services offered to industry by energy service companies

Upon their return to the Maldives, it is anticipated that the Stelco participants will work to implement these DSM/EE practices to mitigate the impact of high electricity generation costs and minimise the need to invest additional capital in new power generation capacity.