Since 2007, Ecuador has been working on strategies to improve energy efficiency, mainly in the residential sector. In 2014, Ecuador started implementing the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Substitution Programme (PEC) 1 that contains, as a central component, the introduction of induction cookers across the country.

The PEC is closely aligned with Ecuador’s development plans and objectives, aiming at reducing its dependence on imported and subsidised fuels, and increasing the share of renewable energy in the matrix. As such, it forms part of a comprehensive and coherent package of fiscal, development and energy policies that combine long-term planning for hydropower with a strategy to phase out LPG subsidies, and the elaboration of market based mechanisms to promote private investment. The GHG mitigation potential of the programme has led Ecuador to consider it as a NAMA.

Main features of the PEC include high level political commitment that supports the initiative in a holistic and integrated manner as well as strong involvement of key ministries across all sectors. The elaboration of a sound, multi-criteria socio-economic analysis and an effective communications strategy were also central factors for the success of this programme.