UJALA turns 9, illuminating India with 36 cr LEDs and green gains

Shining a Light on Progress

• Estimated annual energy savings of 48.42 bn kWh, reduced peak demand by 9,789 MW
• 39.30 million tonne CO2 emissions reduced annually
• Rs 19,334 cr annual savings in consumer electricity bills
• UJALA, SLNP initiatives successfully implemented in Telangana, AP
• EESL acknowledges the support of BEE, govt bodies, States for the program’s success

Hyderabad: Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of PSUs under the Ministry of Power, celebrated nine years of transforming India's lighting industry in a sustainable way through its flagship programme Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDS for All (UJALA).

The program turned into a powerful narrative of transformation in the country's energy landscape, marked by milestones like distributing 36.86 crore LED bulbs, achieving a remarkable 90 per cent reduction in prices, and solidifying UJALA initiatives as a resounding testament to energy efficiency.

EESL disclosed the distribution of a staggering 36.86 crore LED bulbs, 72.18 lakh tube lights and 23.59 lakh energy-efficient fans under the UJALA scheme over the past nine years. The effort translated into an estimated energy savings of a whopping 48.42 billion kWh annually. The ripple effect extends further, with avoided peak demand reaching an impressive 9,789 MW and greenhouse gas emissions reduced by 39.30 million tonne CO2 per year. Equally impressive are the estimated annual monetary savings of Rs 19,334 crore in consumer electricity bills.

The mission commenced on January 5, 2015, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the UJALA and Street Lighting National Program (SLNP). These initiatives are aimed to replace conventional street lights with smart and energy-efficient LED lights, setting the stage for a nationwide shift towards sustainable energy practices. A statement issued by EESL said on Sunday that the initiatives have brought wonders in several States including Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

During a review meeting, EESL CEO Vishal Kapoor thanked Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), Union government, the State governments and Union Territories for being part of this grand success and also appealed to propel the success of UJALA and SLNP initiatives, emphasising their transformative impact on energy efficiency.

Urging collective commitment, he encourages widespread adoption to ensure a sustainable and greener future for the nation. As India continues its journey towards a sustainable and energy-efficient future, the success of EESL's UJALA and SLNP programs shines as a beacon of hope, he said.

The ninth anniversary celebration not only commemorates past achievements but also sets the stage for continued advancements in energy efficiency. The impact on the government, local bodies, and individuals is undeniable, as the nation collectively takes strides towards a greener and more sustainable tomorrow.

On the occasion of ninth anniversary celebration, during a video conference conducted by EESL, Vishal Kapoor, senior executives of EESL Animesh Mishra, Girija Shanker, Adesh, Nitin Bhutt, Mukund highlighted the future course of action for further penetrating energy efficiency in all major States including Telangana and

Andhra Pradesh.