CPWD to generate 42.50 MW solar power by Sept, 2016

State-controlled construction major, the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) will generate 42.50 MW of solar energy across the country besides replacing energy inefficient electrical fittings in 20 government buildings in Delhi by September, 2016 and in rest of the country later, according to an official statement. “These initiatives of CPWD are estimated to result in a total saving of Rs.115 cr per year,” the ministry of urban development said in a statement. Efforts of CPWD in this regard and the consequent gains in terms of saving in energy consumption were reviewed today by Madhusudhan Prasad, Secretary (Urban Development). CPWD earlier signed a memorandum of understanding with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) for generation of solar power for installation of grid connected rooftop Solar Photo Voltaic panels in all government buildings maintained by CPWD across the country. Consequently, SECI awarded works to 14 bidders for undertaking works in 16 states. 10 MW of solar power will be generated by May,2016 in Phase-I covering Delhi (3 MW), Uttar Pradesh (2 MW), North-East and UTs(2 MW) and 1 MW each in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra, the ministry informed. As part of measures to promote efficient use of energy in all the Government buildings, CPWD has begun to replace energy inefficient fittings with LED bulbs and 5 star air conditioning systems approved by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency. This will be completed in 20 buildings in Delhi by September, 2016. These measures are estimated to result in a total saving of 11.41 crore units of power and Rs 103 cr in energy cost per year, said the ministry. In Delhi, a total of 16,613 LED lamps have so far been installed in 261 of 268 government bungalows and 408 of 546 flats of MPs. The remaining will be done so during the budget session of Parliament.