State Energy Efficiency Index 2020: Rajasthan secures second spot

Rajasthan has secured the second spot after Karnataka in the State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2020, released by the Ministry of Power. Dr Subodh Agarwal, ACS Energy, Rajasthan government, told the media that it is a significant leap for the state and has been possible due to the focused approach and policy initiatives of the state government. The Solar Energy Policy 2019 and the Wind and Hybrid Energy Policy 2019 have developed as a significant facilitator for providing the natural benefit Rajasthan holds in the renewable energy sector. In the recent report, Rajasthan has recorded 61 points, which is a tremendous growth from 18.5 points at the past year index, SEEI 2019. Rajasthan bagged second place after Karnataka this year. The SEE index evaluates the states in four levels of Aspirant with a score below 30 points, Contenders with a score between 30-50, Achievers with a score of 50-60 and the Frontrunners with more than 60 points score. SEEI 2020 has evaluated the performance of 36 states and Union territories in energy efficiency (EE) utilising 68 qualitative, quantitative, and outcome-based indicators adding to a maximum score of 100 across six sectors. The energy minister of the Rajasthan government, BD Kalla has been closely observing the execution of policies and implementation of needed procedures, said an official release. Rajasthan, the second-highest performer, is the only state to have developed an ECBC cell in its Public Works Department (PWD). The cell supported by the state fund works under the control of the Chief Architect, PWD. The SEEI 2020 report additionally makes a note of energy-saving initiatives taken by the state in water and sewerage, street lighting and non-PAT industries. Rajasthan has selected dedicated firms to carry out periodic energy audits of street lighting, water and sewerage infrastructure, and water treatment systems. It is also among the few states that recorded a measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) mechanism for assessing DSM programmes. The Rajasthan State Development Authority plans the Rajasthan Energy Conservation Awards (RECA) every year for five sectors and fifty sub-sectors. Image Source