First-of-Its-Kind Energy Efficiency Initiative in Tourism Employment Generation &; Infra Push: Major Pilot Project in Araku

In line with the Government of India’s net zero commitments and sustainable development goals, Andhra Pradesh Government has reaffirmed its resolve to transform the State into a global tourism hub, integrating sustainability, innovation, and large-scale employment generation.

To achieve this vision, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department has adopted a comprehensive five-point strategic roadmap aimed at long-term, inclusive, and environmentally responsible growth. Attracting substantial national and global investments in tourism infrastructure

Adoption of global technologies, particularly in energy efficiency, with support from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) under the Ministry of Power, and the State Energy Conservation Mission (SECM)

Strong focus on economic growth and employment generation Significant contribution to climate change mitigation, safeguarding the interests of future generations. Extensive public and tourist participation programs to ensure effective implementation of the AP Tourism Policy (2024–2029).

Disclosing these developments, Minister for Tourism Kandula Durgesh stated that with the steadfast support of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Andhra Pradesh has become the first State in India to enter into a MoU with Central agencies such as EESL for the adoption of global energy-efficiency technologies in the tourism sector. As part of this collaboration, EESL will undertake its largest pilot project at Araku, commencing in January 2026. The project will involve the design, installation, testing, and commissioning of Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) systems for water and space heating in tourism facilities.

Key highlights of the initiative include 50–70% annual energy savings, reduction of approximately 300 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year, system lifespan exceeding 15 years with low maintenance, Use of eco-friendly refrigerants, aligning with global sustainability standards.

Emphasizing the Chief Minister’s vision, Special Chief Secretary (Housing & Tourism), Ajay Jain, stated that the government is committed to generating at least 25,000 employment opportunities for youth in the coming years through tourism-led development. He added that equal focus is being laid across all regions of the State, with Visakhapatnam and Araku being positioned as global tourist destinations, backed by major infrastructure upgrades and hospitality expansion.

Notably, one-third of the 11,272 hotel rooms planned nationwide for 2025–26 are coming up in Andhra Pradesh, reflecting the growing confidence of investors in the State’s leadership and tourism potential. On the occasion of National Energy Conservation Week (December 14–20) and the NECA Awards 2025, conducted by theBEE at the national level, the Tourism Minister, along with Ajay Jain, released an EESL poster highlighting Andhra Pradesh’s energy efficiency initiatives.

APMDC MD Amrapali Kata assured that all key energy-efficient technologies covered under the MoU will be implemented in full. She described the initiative as a major milestone in delivering cost-effective, high-quality tourism services and in improving the living standards of tourists, particularly in destinations like Araku.