Energy conservation code likely in Rajasthan

Marred by shortage of electricity, Rajasthan government is likely to implement energy conservation building code in the state soon.

After implementation of this code, use of energy saving compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) and solar heating plants would be mandatory in all the government buildings including offices, guesthouses and other annexes in the state.

The government also plans to give priority to installation of solar devices in office buildings. A decision to this effect was taken at a meeting of urban development department held a few days back.

Besides this, the use of solar water heating plant would also be made compulsory in all departmental guesthouses and state government run hotels.

According to the sources, the draft of the proposal had been prepared by the officials of energy department.

Sources informed that the under the initial phase the project would implemented on the government buildings, guest houses and hotels coming under the jurisdiction of Jaipur power distribution company (Jaipur Discom).

It is estimated that use of CFLs and solar water heating plant would reduce the total power consumption by 20-30 per cent.

"The use of CFLs and solar water heating plant would reduce the power consumption by a good amount," a senior official said.

However, sources said that before implementing it, the department wants to seek views from general public on the matter for which an open house is slated to be organised soon in Jaipur after which a final shape is expected to be given to the code.