Context:

India annually celebrates the National Energy Conservation Day on the 14th of December.

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The National Energy Conservation Awards 2024 were presented during the Energy Conservation Day. 

• These awards honour the exceptional efforts of industrial units, institutions, and establishments that have significantly reduced energy consumption while maintaining or enhancing their operational efficiency.
• The awards were given in 17 sectors covering 5 categories - Industry, buildings, Transport, Institutions, and Appliances are included in the Awards. 

These awards have encouraged industries and establishments to adopt innovative measures and technologies, setting benchmarks in sustainable energy practices.

About National Energy Conservation Day

• It was introduced in 1991, this day is championed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), symbolizing the nation's commitment to energy efficiency and conservation. 
• It serves as a reminder of the vital role energy plays in our lives and the urgency of conserving it. 

About the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

• The Government of India set up the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) on 1st March 2002 under the provisions of the Energy Conservation Act, 2001. 
• The mission of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency is to assist in developing policies and strategies with a thrust on self-regulation and market principles, within the overall framework of the Energy Conservation Act, of 2001.
• The vision of BEE is to improve the Energy Intensity of the Indian Economy thereby contributing towards sustainable development of the country.

Steps Taken by the Government for Energy Conservation

• Perform Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme: It is a mechanism designed to achieve energy reduction in energy-intensive industries and it is designed on the concept of reduction in Specific Energy Consumption (SEC). 
• Standard and Labelling (S&L) Program: It was launched with the key objective of providing consumers an informed choice about the energy and cost-saving potential of the labelled appliances/ equipment being sold commercially.
• “Go Electric” Campaign: The Ministry of Power launched the Campaign in 2021 to create awareness among the masses about the benefits of switching over to Electric Vehicles (EVs) and various government EV initiatives.
• EV Yatra” web portal and Mobile Application: BEE launched this web portal & Mobile App in 2022 with the objective of creating awareness among the EV users and masses at large to promote e-mobility in the country.
• Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA): Under this scheme (2015), LED bulbs, LED Tube lights, and Energy efficient fans are being sold to domestic consumers to replace conventional and inefficient variants. This has resulted in significant energy savings.
• Street Lighting National Program (SLNP): It was launched (in 2015) to replace conventional street lights with smart and energy-efficient LED street lights across India.