Sustainable energy management: a recent example of post-training support in Sierra Leone

Last November, COLEAD provided a post-training support in the field of sustainable energy management to WANGU PTY LTD, a fruit and vegetable processing company in Sierra Leone. This intervention, carried out as part of the FFM+ programme, included a Type 1 energy audit according to the ISO 50002:2014 standard. The aim was to optimise the company’s energy consumption and improve its overall operational efficiency.

An energy audit for efficiency

The audit focused on analysing energy consumption patterns at WANGU’s Masiaka factory site and identifying opportunities to improve energy efficiency. Key activities included :

– A site inspection to identify energy intensive equipment and inefficiencies;

– A review of energy management procedures and historical data;

– Recommendations for cost-effective improvements to processes and equipment utilisation, with a particular focus on optimising refrigeration, solar power and diesel generators.

Key findings and recommendations

The audit identified significant opportunities to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions:

• Potential energy savings of around 20%, equivalent to an annual reduction in fuel costs of around $85,000 and a reduction in emissions of 180 tonnes of CO2e;
• Recommendations to optimise refrigeration processes, increase solar energy production capacity and explore the production of biogas from fruit waste;
• Prioritising low or no-cost measures such as improving insulation, optimising equipment efficiency and improving maintenance;
• A more in-depth analysis (type 2 or 3 audit) recommended for opportunities requiring significant investment, as well as the implementation of an ISO 50001-compliant energy management system.

Impact and next steps

WANGU PTY LTD has shown a strong commitment to implementing the audit recommendations. In particular, the company plans to increase its solar manufacturing capacity and implement an ISO 50001-compliant energy management system. These initiatives are in line with COLEAD’s objectives to promote sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of agro-processing activities.

This collaboration illustrates COLEAD’s commitment to supporting companies make the transition to more sustainable, environmentally friendly practices.

This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.