Expert training: Refrigeration Systems Optimization (RSO)
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in partnership with National Cleaner Production Centre, Sri Lanka (NCPC), is pleased to announce the Call for Applications to participate in its Expert Training Programme on Refrigeration Systems Optimization (RSO).
Why should you consider the RSO training?
Refrigeration is one of the most energy-intensive processes across industries, and optimizing these systems can deliver substantial benefits. By participating in this training, you not only strengthen your technical capabilities but also position yourself as a leader in sustainable engineering practices. This initiative will directly support your organizational goals of efficiency, compliance, and innovation.
What can you expect from the RSO training?
UNIDO has delivered its RSO training programme to industry and energy practitioners worldwide. RSO training programme typically combines technical theory, hands‑on practice, and sustainability principles, covering everything from thermodynamics and refrigerant management to troubleshooting and advanced energy‑saving technologies. Participants can expect to leave with both practical skills and a strong understanding of compliance and efficiency standards. At the end of the training, participants will be equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to assess an organization’s refrigeration system and to recommend opportunities for enhancing energy efficiency and to optimize the processes.
Who will lead the course and where will it take place?
Through a series of in-person and online interactions over a 8-month period, participants will be guided through the course by UNIDO International Refrigeration Systems Experts.
What is the training schedule?
In 2026 we will accept 30 participants for the 2-day RSO User Level training, and the candidates who successfully pass the evaluation will be selected for the 4-day Expert Level training. Training will be delivered according to the following tentative schedule:
How much will it cost?
The training will be delivered free of charge to industries committed to implementing energy-efficient technologies and initiatives.
Who can apply?
- Individual category: individual applicants.
- Industries category: 2 applicants from each organization.
Applications for Industries
If you are applying as an industry these are the eligibility criteria:
- Target industries: food processing (meat, poultry, seafood, dairy, cold desserts, etc.); Beverage (breweries, soft drinks, dairy etc.); agriculture & fisheries (post‑harvest storage, ice plants, cold rooms for catch preservation etc.); pharmaceuticals and herbal; chemicals and paints;
- Manufacturing industries using Electrical Energy as an energy source. Specifically refrigeration systems in use, including chillers, freezers, cold rooms etc.;
- Maximum 2 participants per company (engineering/ science background are highly encouraged);
- Preference will be given to industries having refrigerators/chillers larger than 150kW (~40TR) or total installed capacity of refrigerators/chiller plants larger than 350kW (~100TR) and with average monthly electrical energy consumption of more than 100,000kWh;
- The participants should have computer software literacy including Microsoft Excel proficiency; and proficiency in English is recommended;
- Willingness to commit to the project.
Applications for Individuals
If you are applying as an individual these are the eligibility criteria:
- Energy efficiency practitioners, energy efficiency service providers, refrigeration/chiller system equipment vendors, ESCo representatives, academia and consultants are eligible;
- Graduate of a Higher Educational Institution in Engineering or Science (NVQ level 7) (preferably Electrical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering);
- Minimum 5 years of experience in relevant industry and at least 2 years in energy auditing/ MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) designing / refrigeration system maintenance / cleaner production assessment;
- Demonstrated exposure and/or understanding of industrial refrigeration systems energy usage and best practices;
- Proficient in English;
- Computer software literacy and Microsoft Excel proficiency;
- Current and future commitment of work in refrigeration systems.
How to apply?
- Choose the category below (industry or individual).
- Fill in the respective registration form.
- Submit the registration form by 16th July 2026.
- The short-listed candidates may be invited for an additional interview.
Call for Applications is now closed.