The UJALA (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All) and SLNP (Street Lighting National Programme), two significant initiatives launched by the Ministry of Power, recently celebrated six successful years of implementation. Executed by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of Public Sector Units (PSUs), these programs have revolutionized household and public lighting in India. The success of these schemes has received international recognition, bringing home awards such as the South Asia Procurement Innovation Award (SAPIA) 2017 and the Global Solid State Lighting (SSL) award.
About UJALA (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All)
Launched by the government in 2015, UJALA is a zero-subsidy scheme and is globally recognized as the world’s largest domestic lighting project. Initially known as the LED-based Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme (DELP), its main objective is promoting efficient energy use inclusive of its consumption, savings, and lighting aspects. Any domestic household with a metered connection from their respective Electricity Distribution Company qualifies for LED bulbs under this Scheme.
Key Achievements of UJALA
Under UJALA, EESL has successfully distributed over 36.69 crore LED bulbs throughout India. This initiative has led to an estimated annual energy saving of 47.65 billion kWh, avoiding peak demand of 9,540 MW and reducing GreenHouse Gas (GHG) emissions by 38.59 million tonnes CO2. In addition to contributing to the growth of domestic LED markets, the scheme has reduced average household electricity bills by 15%.
About SLNP (Street Lighting National Programme)
The SLNP, another noteworthy scheme launched in 2015, aims to enhance energy efficiency across India. Under this program, EESL replaces conventional street lights with LEDs at zero upfront cost to municipalities. With the expected peak demand reduction of 500 MW, annual energy savings of 190 crore kWh, and cuts in CO2 emissions by 15 lakh tons, the scheme holds immense potential. SLNP also intends to bring investments worth Rs. 8,000 crores by 2024 to cover rural India.
Key Achievements of SLNP
So far, over 1.14 crore smart LED streetlights have been installed under the SLNP, resulting in estimated energy savings of 7.67 billion kWh per year. This translates to an avoided Peak demand of 1,161 MW and a GHG emission reduction of approximately 5.29 million tons of CO2 each year. By participating in the scheme, Indian municipalities have made substantial savings of Rs. 5,210 crores in their electricity bills.
These two programmes exemplify significant strides in promoting energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact, setting a global benchmark for sustainable practices. Through the continued implementation and development of such initiatives, India is poised to make essential contributions to worldwide energy conservation efforts.
