TFP Bureau, Raipur, June 14, 2024: Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Administration and Development Minister Shri Arun Saw has issued directives for conducting energy and electricity bill audits in all 184 urban bodies across the state. Emphasizing the shift from traditional energy sources to solar energy, Shri Saw aims to reduce energy costs and improve environmental sustainability.
Shri Saw highlighted that many urban bodies struggle with timely payment of electricity bills due to insufficient funds, resulting in surcharges and arrears. He stated that energy and electricity bill audits will help identify potential savings. He urged officials to prioritize the use of green energy to cut costs and promote environmental health.
The Deputy Chief Minister has mandated third-party audits by professional agencies to evaluate energy usage and bills. This audit will cover the numerous electricity connections in urban bodies used for public services like water supply and street lighting. Monthly electricity bills for these services currently impose significant financial burdens on the urban bodies.
In the review meeting, Shri Saw noted that the Urban Administration Department annually transfers around Rs 100 crore to Rs 200 crore to cover urban bodies’ electricity bills, with pending payments accruing to about Rs 800 crore. The audits will provide a clear assessment of actual electricity consumption and help eliminate unnecessary surcharges.
Following the audit, a policy will be developed to reduce electricity consumption and install solar power plants, potentially saving Rs 800 crore to Rs 1,000 crore in the long term. Moreover, urban bodies will gain carbon credits by adopting green energy solutions.
Shri Saw stated that the savings from reduced electricity costs could be redirected to infrastructure development and new schemes for citizens’ basic needs. The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that incorporating solar energy and reducing thermal energy usage would foster environmental sustainability.
An action plan for a pilot project is being prepared to conduct energy audits and gather accurate data on electricity consumption in urban bodies. This initiative will help identify system deficiencies, promote energy-efficient equipment, and adopt alternative arrangements like solar energy. The Government of India has also introduced innovative schemes such as PM Kusum, PM Suryodaya, and PM Suryaghar to encourage the use of solar energy.
These steps aim to make urban bodies more energy-efficient, reduce costs, and promote sustainable development in Chhattisgarh.
