AP leads the way in energy efficiency and conservation: Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand

Andhra Pradesh has set a benchmark for the country in energy efficiency and conservation, thanks to proactive policies and effective implementation, said Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand. He highlighted that the state’s consistent efforts across industries, buildings, institutions, and urban local bodies have played a key role in achieving these results.

Vijayanand was speaking at the closing ceremony of the National Energy Conservation Week 2025, organized by the Andhra Pradesh State Energy Conservation Mission in Vijayawada. During the event, the state government presented Energy Conservation Awards to government and private organizations that demonstrated outstanding performance in energy efficiency.

Since 2015, the state has been following a structured approach to energy conservation. Vijayanand pointed out that after the Hudhud cyclone, switching streetlights in Visakhapatnam to LED lights resulted in approximately 45% energy savings. With support from Energy Efficiency Services Limited and the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, over two million households across the state were fitted with LED lighting, achieving nearly 30% electricity savings.

The government also promoted energy-efficient motors in agriculture and implemented the Perform-Achieve-Trade (PAT) scheme in industries. These initiatives, carried out in three phases, have collectively saved energy equivalent to about 1.35 million tonnes of oil, the Chief Secretary said.

Beyond technological upgrades, the state has focused on enforcing strong energy conservation policies. Mandatory energy efficiency norms and green building regulations have already led to approvals for 2,000-3,000 green buildings. Under the Integrated Clean Energy Policy, aimed at achieving net-zero carbon emissions, the state targets 160 GW of renewable energy generation, with permissions already granted for 100 GW of projects.

Vijayanand emphasized the importance of public participation in energy conservation. To raise awareness among students, 1,550 Energy Literacy Clubs have been established in schools. He urged citizens to consider energy-saving measures as part of their social responsibility, highlighting both cost savings and environmental protection.

Following the ceremony, the Chief Secretary reviewed the state’s electricity sector initiatives. He instructed officials of the AP Central Power Distribution Company to ensure all projects are completed on time, with special focus on rooftop and feeder-level solar systems, reducing electricity losses, smart metering, and setting up EV charging stations.