RWAs Key to Power Savings: BEE Urges Push for Energy Efficiency in Homes

Recognising the pivotal role of Residential Welfare Associations (RWAs) and Group Housing Societies in shaping consumer behaviour, Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power has urged the State Designated Agencies (SDAs) including Andhra Pradesh State Energy conservation Mission ( APSECM) to intensify grassroots-level awareness campaigns promoting Behaviour-Based Energy Saving Practices (2BESP).

BEE said these efforts are particularly vital in the residential sector, which accounts for 35–40% of India’s total energy consumption. RWAs, with their close-knit community structures, are ideally positioned to champion energy-efficient habits and technologies among households.

During stakeholder interaction on the impact of 5-star rated appliances, BEE Secretary Milind Deore emphasised the importance of adopting high-efficiency air conditioners, refrigerators, and ceiling fans to significantly lower electricity consumption and consumer bills.

He also reiterated the Government of India’s campaign encouraging citizens to set air-conditioners at 24°C or higher—a simple yet impactful practice. “A shift in daily habits, coupled with the adoption of energy-efficient appliances, can lead to massive savings—for both consumers and the nation,” said Deore.

According to BEE estimates, the implementation of 2BESP initiatives could save up to 22.5 billion kWh of electricity annually, translating to substantial economic and environmental benefits. Several SDA's in the country including Andhra Pradesh (APSECM), Telangana

(TSREDCO) and Karnataka (KREDL) . Tamil Nadu (TANGEDCO) and Kerala (EMC) were recognised for their proactive engagement in advancing national energy efficiency goals.

These efforts have already delivered major gains, which included 81.64 billion units of electricity saved (2022–23), Rs.54,323 crore in energy cost savings and 58 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions avoided annually.