Vijayawada: The South Asia Clean Energy Forum (SACEF) 2024, hosted by USAID, brought together top policymakers, industry experts, and innovators from across South Asia to discuss strategies for advancing energy efficiency and sustainability. Among the highlights of the event, Andhra Pradesh was prominently recognized for its leadership in energy efficiency, setting a national benchmark for sustainable practices.
The state’s pioneering efforts, particularly through the adoption of super-efficient appliances, garnered widespread praise. These initiatives have significantly reduced energy consumption, contributing to both Andhra Pradesh’s sustainability targets and global climate change mitigation efforts.
During a panel discussion on “Market Transformation for Super-Efficient Appliances,” Vishal Kapoor, CEO of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), applauded Andhra Pradesh’s accomplishments. “The journey toward energy efficiency is a collective effort,” Kapoor stated. “The success of Andhra Pradesh demonstrates the power of collaboration. EESL is proud to partner with the state in fostering innovations that drive sustainable development.”
A key driver of Andhra Pradesh’s success is its collaboration with EESL, a joint venture under India’s Ministry of Power. This partnership has led to the creation of a comprehensive roadmap for future energy efficiency initiatives, supported by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s vision and EESL’s expertise.
Ajay Jain, Special Chief Secretary of the Housing Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh, delivered a keynote address at the forum, emphasizing the state’s ambitious “Housing for All” initiative. The initiative aims to provide affordable housing to all eligible households by 2029, with a focus on incorporating energy-efficient appliances to reduce electricity costs and enhance sustainability in homes. “Under the leadership of Chief Minister Naidu, we are committed to achieving housing for all while supporting our communities with energy-efficient solutions that improve the quality of life for our citizens,” Jain noted.
Andhra Pradesh’s housing efforts, aligned with India’s Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) scheme, have made notable progress. The state has been allocated 2.3 million houses under PMAY, with an additional 900,000 homes slated for completion by March 2026. The upcoming PMAY 2.0 scheme, with an increased unit cost, aims to ensure affordable housing for remaining eligible households.
In a further boost to the state’s energy efficiency initiatives, Animesh, Chief General Manager of Sales & PR at EESL, announced plans to provide essential lighting and cooling solutions to 300,000 low-income households in Andhra Pradesh. Each family will receive LED bulbs, tube lights, and fans, which are expected to lower electricity costs and improve living standards. “Our collaboration with Andhra Pradesh is transforming lives by enhancing energy efficiency in these communities,” said Animesh.
He also reflected on the state’s recovery after the 2014 Hud-Hud Cyclone, highlighting the partnership between Andhra Pradesh and EESL in rebuilding Visakhapatnam’s infrastructure. The launch of an ambitious LED street lighting project has since led to a significant reduction in the city’s electricity consumption.
A. Chandrasekhar Reddy, Media Advisor for the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in southern states, further emphasized Andhra Pradesh’s successful collaborations with both BEE and EESL, which have driven public participation in energy efficiency initiatives.
SACEF 2024 not only celebrated Andhra Pradesh’s achievements but also positioned the state as a model for other regions to follow, underscoring the crucial role of local initiatives in meeting national energy efficiency goals.
