AAP mandates power-saving ACs, fans in all govt buildings
The Delhi Government on Tuesday mandated the use of energy-efficient appliances, including Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) fans, five-star rated air conditioners (ACs) and other high-efficiency devices, across all its buildings.
Chief Minister Atishi has approved the proposal, which will be sent to the Lieutenant Governor for final clearance.
“Our government has prioritised energy efficiency by mandating the use of BLDC fans, five-star rated air conditioners and other energy-efficient devices in all government buildings. This step will not only reduce electricity consumption and bills but also contribute significantly to building a greener future. Delhi’s initiative will serve as a model for the entire country, demonstrating how technological innovations and effective policies can drive energy conservation,” she said.
She said: “Our goal is to save electricity in government buildings through the use of energy-efficient appliances. This decision will enable us to save crores of rupees annually while contributing to environmental sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.”
Government buildings are among the largest consumers of electricity in Delhi. Each year, Delhi Government departments consume over 2,000 million units of electricity, costing between Rs 8.50 and Rs 11.50 per unit. This results in annual electricity bills exceeding Rs 1,900 crore.
The primary objective of this initiative is to curb the rising demand for electricity and promote energy efficiency. This summer, Delhi’s peak electricity demand reached 8656 MW, a significant increase from 7438 MW the previous year.
Government buildings, being major electricity consumers, will play a key role in achieving these goals through the efficient use of energy-saving appliances, officials said.
AAP’s proposal far behind time, says Delhi BJP
Delhi BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor stated that the AAP Government’s proposal to replace electrical equipment in government offices after 10 years in power is far behind time. “Chief Minister Atishi’s plan to save electricity in government offices is a step delayed by a decade. However, similar initiatives have already been implemented in most major private sector institutions in Delhi,” Kapoor said.
He said between 2007 and 2022, the BJP administration in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) took further steps by installing solar power plants in numerous offices and schools. “This not only eliminated electricity costs but also created a source of income. In addition, the MCD reduced its electricity bills by two-thirds by converting its entire street light network to LED lights. Similarly, Delhi Police brought in cost-saving measures by connecting several police station buildings, offices, and traffic light networks to solar power.”
