The Ministry of Power, alongside the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), recently hosted the 30th National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) event. The occasion saw the inauguration of the Standards and Labelling Programme for Air Compressors and Ultra High Definition (UHD) TV on a voluntary basis, and the launch of the SATHEE Portal.
National Energy Conservation Awards Programme
In 1991, the Ministry of Power set out to recognize industries and establishments that demonstrated significant effort in reducing their energy consumption while maintaining production levels. This led to the initiation of a scheme and subsequent awards that were presented for the first time on December 14th, 1991, now celebrated as ‘The National Energy Conservation Day’. The program recognizes energy efficiency achievements across 56 sub-sectors within industries, establishments, and institutions. Notably, the impact of PAT Cycle II was highlighted during the ceremony for achieving a CO2 emission reduction of 61 million tons.
The Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme
The PAT Scheme is a market-based initiative aimed at accelerating and incentivizing energy efficiency within energy-intensive industries. Implemented by BEE, the scheme provides an opportunity for trading certified energy savings with other designated consumers to meet specific energy consumption reduction targets. It has not only demonstrated its effectiveness in India but has also garnered interest from several other countries.
Standards and Labelling Programme for Air Compressors and Ultra High Definition (UHD) TV
This program, now implemented on a voluntary basis, aims to improve the level of energy conservation. The conserved energy can subsequently be utilized for various purposes within the home or workplace. In addition to conserving energy, the program helps reduce energy bills.
SAATHEE Portal
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has developed a Management Information System portal named State-wise Actions on Annual Targets and Headways on Energy Efficiency (SAATHEE). This portal records the physical and financial status/progress of energy efficiency activities undertaken by States/UTs across India, facilitating real-time monitoring. It also aids in decision making, coordination, control, analysis, and compliance enforcement for various energy consumers at a pan-India level.
India’s Energy Efficiency Targets
Despite having one of the lowest per capita emissions and energy consumption worldwide, India has made ambitious commitments to combat climate change. By 2030, India aims to reduce emission intensity by 33-35% compared to the 2005 level, targeting a renewable energy capacity increase to 450 GW. These targets are part of the commitments made during COP 21 and reflect the Prime Minister’s vision of a climate mitigation goal.
Initiatives Aimed at Energy Conservation
Several initiatives, such as the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme, Standard and Labelling, Demand Side Management, and the Energy Conservation Building Code, have been launched to foster energy conservation.
Other Notable Initiatives
Other noteworthy initiatives include SATHI, an initiative of the Department of Science & Technology which provides shared, professionally managed services and robust Science and Technology infrastructure. SAATHI, an initiative of the Ministry of Textiles, promotes the adoption of energy efficient textile technologies in the powerloom sector. Lastly, the SATH program by NITI Aayog aims to transform education and health sectors and create three future ‘role model’ states.
