Prajavartha Online Telugu News
-BEE Commends Efforts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana in Promoting Energy Efficiency
-Energy Saving Target of 6.68 Mtoe Set for Andhra Pradesh
Vijayawada, Neti Patrika Prajavartha :
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, has called for an all-encompassing participation in the upcoming National Energy Conservation Week, scheduled to take place from December 14th to 20th, 2024. This initiative is an integral part of the nation’s broader mission to tackle the dual challenges of environmental degradation and climate change. It aims to foster widespread awareness about the significance of energy conservation and energy efficiency, while encouraging collective efforts to safeguard natural resources for future generations.
BEE Secretary, Shri Milind Deore, emphasized that climate change remains one of the most critical challenges of our time, with far-reaching consequences on ecosystems, economies, and human livelihoods. He highlighted the need for a nationwide movement that mobilizes governments, industries, and individuals to combat the pressing issues of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, deforestation, and pollution. Stressing the importance of localized solutions, Shri Deora urged states to formulate specific action plans tailored to their unique conditions, ensuring the effective implementation of energy conservation measures. He further called for accelerating energy efficiency efforts across critical sectors such as agriculture, industry, IT, transport, Panchayati Raj, and rural and urban development to meet India’s sustainable development goals.
According to the Media Adviser Southern States/UTs BEE MOP GOI, Commending the proactive role of southern states, particularly Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Secretary Milind Deora applauded their commitment to advancing the cause of energy conservation. In Andhra Pradesh, the Special Chief Secretary of Energy has collaborated with the School Education Department to involve students in energy conservation activities. A directive issued to all District Education Officers (DEOs) from School education department has led to the organization of a statewide short video competition, aptly titled Bright Ideas and Brighter Future. This initiative invites creative participation from students in classes 8 to 10, with attractive monetary prizes serving as an incentive. Similarly, Telangana has demonstrated exemplary leadership by mobilizing women and students for energy conservation campaigns, showcasing the potential of community-driven initiatives in achieving lasting behavioral change.
Reflecting on India’s progress in energy efficiency, Shri Deore highlighted the Standards & Labeling (S&L) Programs a cornerstone of the country’s success. As of January 2024, this program, covers 38 energy-efficient appliances, has led to 81.64 billion units of energy savings, translating into ₹54,324 crores in cost savings, and a reduction of 58 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions in FY 2022-23. The Telugu states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana through SDAs i.e. APSECM and TS REDCO have played a pivotal role in popularizing star-rated appliances, particularly in the domestic sector, contributing significantly to these achievements. Recognizing the program’s potential for further expansion, BEE has partnered with the Department of Consumer Affairs, Delhi, to ensure the availability of high-quality, energy-efficient appliances nationwide.
Looking to the future, BEE has set an ambitious national target of saving 150 million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe) by 2030. Andhra Pradesh has been assigned a target of 6.68 Mtoe, reflecting its potential to significantly contribute to India’s energy efficiency goals. These targets have been determined based on detailed analyses of energy consumption patterns and the savings achieved in various sectors. Shri Deora reiterated the critical role of states in achieving these goals, urging them to prepare and implement time-bound roadmaps that prioritize clean and renewable energy, energy efficiency, water management, and afforestation.
To ensure the success of these initiatives, BEE is focusing on robust communication strategies that engage the public effectively. These strategies include impactful campaigns across print, electronic, and social media to mobilize communities, particularly youth and women. By fostering a culture of energy conservation and promoting the use of BEE star-rated appliances, these campaigns aim to inspire individuals to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.
Deore emphasized the transformational power of collective action, stating, “Energy efficiency is not merely about conserving electricity; it is about building a sustainable future for our children and future generations. Each small effort in conserving energy is a step toward achieving our national and global climate goals.”
BEE also highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change, pointing out that the energy sector accounts for nearly three-quarters of all GHG emissions, primarily from fossil fuel combustion. Experts at the event stressed the importance of transitioning to clean energy sources and adopting energy-efficient practices to limit global temperature rise within the 1.5°C target set by the Paris Agreement.
In conclusion, BEE urges all stakeholders, including state governments, industries, educational institutions, and individuals, to join hands in making National Energy Conservation Week a resounding success. With collective efforts, India can pave the way for a sustainable and energy-efficient future, significantly contributing to global climate action.
