In light of the recent celebrations of the 31st National Energy Conservation Awards (NECA) by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), this article seeks to underscore India’s achievements in the realm of energy efficiency and conservation. In addition, a novel award titled – National Energy Efficiency Innovation Awards (NEEIA) has been introduced. The BEE is a legal entity established via the Energy Conservation Act, 2001 under the Union Ministry of Power and plays a pivotal role in devising policies and strategies aimed at reducing the energy intensity of the Indian economy.
Understanding the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)
As a statutory body, BEE bears the responsibility of coordinating with designated consumers, agencies, and other organizations in order to tap into the existing resources and infrastructure to perform its functions. Additionally, it assists in shaping policies and strategies that primarily focus on reducing the energy intensity of the Indian economy.
The Genesis of NECA
A scheme launched in 1991 by the Ministry of Power sought to nationally recognize and award industries and establishments that had taken special efforts to reduce energy consumption whilst maintaining their production. The first awards were given away on December 14th, 1991, now known as National Energy Conservation Day. The awards recognize energy efficiency achievements in 56 sub-sectors across industry, establishments, and institutions.
Decoding Energy Efficiency in India
Energy efficiency refers to using less energy to accomplish the same task – essentially, eliminating energy waste. Energy efficiency garners various benefits such as: reducing GreenHouse Gas (GHG) emissions, cutting down demand for energy imports, and lowering costs on both household and economy-wide levels. India’s energy sector is poised for a transition with recent government developmental ambitions like installed capacity of renewable energy, 24X7 Power for all, Housing for all by 2022, 100 smart cities mission, promotion of e-mobility and others. If ambitious energy efficiency policies are implemented, India can stave off the creation of 300 GW of new power generation until 2040.
Pioneering Efforts in Energy Efficiency and Conservation
India has implemented multiple measures to bolster energy efficiency and conservation. These include the Energy Conservation Act, 2001, providing regulatory mandates for standards & labeling of equipment and appliances; PAT Scheme, a market-based mechanism to enhance cost-effectiveness in improving energy efficiency; Standards and Labeling scheme, launched in 2006 for specific equipment and appliances; Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) which sets minimum energy standards for new commercial buildings; and Demand Side Management (DSM) measures.
Global Organizations and Treaties in the Domain
Several global entities like International Energy Agency (IEA), Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) work with nations worldwide to shape energy policies. There are also international treaties like the Paris Agreement that aim to mitigate climate change. Lastly, Mission Innovation (MI) is a global initiative of 24 countries and the European Commission to hasten clean energy innovation.
Strategies to Enhance Energy Efficiency
Various strategies to improve energy efficiency have been put forward including changes in Energy Use Behaviour and installation of Smart Meters. Pushing for Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) Programme in all segments of the construction sector can also help. Additionally, amendments to the Electricity Act could herald a makeover for India’s power sector. Embracing an energy-efficient lifestyle could provide positive momentum towards the transformation of India’s energy system, making it more sustainable.