Sustainable energy fund proposed for renewables, energy audit made mandatory every 3 years for big users

The government has proposed establishing an autonomous center and a sustainable energy fund for renewable energy and energy efficiency. The Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation has proposed this arrangement.

According to the proposal, a sustainable energy fund will be set up to extend renewable energy access to remote villages, disaster-affected areas and disadvantaged communities. The proposal also includes a provision for concessional loans to such areas on a priority basis.

The draft bill also contains a provision on energy auditing. Businesses and commercial sectors that consume energy beyond the limit set by the government will be required to undergo an energy audit every three years.

The government has stated that these provisions have been proposed with the aim of improving energy efficiency and expanding access to renewable energy.