When Namibia committed to an accelerated phase-out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) in 2011, it wasn’t just a policy shift—it was a decision made at the highest levels of government to align environmental action with the country’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2030. The country’s HCFC Phase-Out Management Plan (HPMP), submitted at the 63rd meeting of the Executive Committee of the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol, set an ambitious course: phasing out HCFCs far ahead of global requirements while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions.
The Government of Germany, serving as Namibia’s bilateral implementing agency, provided critical support to phase out HCFCs in a way that delivered long-term climate benefits. By 2015, Namibia had already reduced its HCFC consumption by 36 percent—more than three times what was required under the Montreal Protocol. By 2020, that number soared above 90 percent, far exceeding its commitments. Now, with its final phase-out within reach, Namibia is proving that a strong regulatory framework, industry-wide training, and strategic incentives drive lasting environmental and economic benefits.
A Commitment Backed by Action
Just over a decade ago, Namibia relied entirely on imported HCFC-22 for refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) servicing, along with a smaller amount of HCFC-141b used as a flushing agent. Initially, the country’s HCFC baseline consumption was estimated at 6.03 ODP tonnes, but by 2013, revised data adjusted this to 8.4 ODP tonnes. Even with the updated baseline, Namibia remained committed to complete its HCFC phase-out by 2025 while maintaining only a 2.5 percent servicing tail until 2030.
A Comprehensive Model for Phase-Out Success
Namibia’s success is the result of a carefully structured HPMP, ensuring rapid reductions while equipping industries and technicians with the tools for a seamless transition. Regulatory enforcement was a central component, with customs officers receiving training to identify HCFC imports, and a licensing and quota system put in place to curb illegal trade.
Building technical expertise was another key element of the strategy. National training programs ensured that RAC technicians and service providers had the necessary skills to handle low-global-warming-potential (GWP) alternatives such as ammonia and CO₂. Retrofit kits were also distributed to facilitate conversions away from HCFC-based systems. Meanwhile, businesses and consumers were incentivized to upgrade outdated, inefficient equipment, supporting a broader shift toward energy-efficient refrigeration and air-conditioning solutions.
Raising awareness was central to creating an industry-wide movement. Public education efforts ensured that businesses not only understood the environmental risks of HCFCs, but also the long-term financial savings associated with cleaner cooling technologies. These combined strategies created broad support for the transition, helping Namibia maintain steady momentum toward full elimination.
Beyond Compliance: Expanding Energy Efficiency Measures
Namibia’s leadership saw the HCFC phase-out as an opportunity to do more than just meet compliance deadlines. In 2023, the country expanded its focus on energy efficiency within its HCFC phase-out strategy, leveraging a funding window approved at the 89th meeting of the Executive Committee to enhance cooling sector sustainability. As part of this initiative, Namibia conducted a national market survey to assess the energy performance of RAC equipment and establish a baseline for future efficiency improvements. New minimum energy performance standards were introduced, alongside an energy labeling system to guide businesses and consumers toward energy-efficient cooling solutions. Strengthening regulatory measures further supported this transition, while awareness campaigns encouraged investment in next-generation cooling technologies.
Ensuring Long-Term Sustainability
Backed by the Multilateral Fund’s continued support, Namibia’s transition is structured for long-term success.
By accelerating its phase-out of HCFCs while integrating climate-smart and energy-efficient alternatives, Namibia is not just eliminating harmful substances—it is setting a global example for sustainable cooling solutions that support both economic growth and environmental resilience.