ANDHRA PRADESH – Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu launched distribution of energy-efficient LED tube lights programme at the interim Secretariat near here on Friday.
Mr. Naidu said that the Central government has agreed to provide assistance in installing the LED streetlights in all villages in the State in an year. The investment would be around Rs. 1,200 crore and approximately 30 lakhs LED streetlights would replace the conventional tube lights, etc. It would help in saving 40% of energy. Thus, funds of the panchayats would also be saved to a great extent, he said.
The new initiative would not only benefit the common man but also helps in environment protection. Carbon emissions can be reduced significantly with use of LED tube lights. Earlier, the government distributed one crore LED bulbs at nominal price of Rs. 10 each. All the bulbs were distributed within a short span of one year. It was a national record. So far, a total of two crore bulbs have been distributed, he said.
As part of the government’s commitment to promote energy efficiency concept in the State, the government was distributing ED bulbs, LED tube lights and energy-efficient ceiling fans. These products function very effectively and consume very less power compared to conventional bulbs, tube lights and fans. These energy-efficient appliances would be distributed to the public in a phased manner through integrated counters in various places all over the State, he said.
Pocket-friendly
A 9 watt LED bulb worth Rs. 250 in the open market is sold at just Rs. 75 at the designated counters. Five star rated ceiling fan worth Rs. 1,800 in the open market is sold at Rs. 1,020. All these appliances are given a warranty of around three years.
Andhra Pradesh Electricity Regulatory Commission (APERC) Chairman Justice G. Bhavani Prasad said that it was a privilege for the State to receive national and international recognition in various fields of the energy sector in general and energy efficiency in particular. The APERC has been extending full support in promotion of energy efficiency and will continue its endeavour, he said.
Labour Welfare Minister K. Atchhannaidu, Municipal Administration Minister P. Narayana, Special Chief Secretary Dinesh Kumar, and Principal Secretary (Energy, I&I and CRDA) were among those present.
Source: http://www.thehindu.com
