BEE spearheads initiative to enhance efficiency of DISCOMs in South India

Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), a joint venture of public sector oil companies under the Ministry of Power has launched a capacity building programme as part of a special campaign to benefit the power distribution companies (DISCOMs) in Andhra Pradesh and other parts of South India.

The initiative aims to reshape the power landscape by establishing a robust framework within DISCOMs so as to enhance the operational efficiency and propel the nation toward a dynamic, greener and sustainable energy ecosystem.

At a meeting held in Hyderabad, BEE orchestrated an MoU signing ceremony for the demand side management (DSM) implementation project under the DISCOMs’ capacity building for Southern States. Eastern Power Distribution Company Ltd (EPDCL) from Visakhapatnam joined by select DISCOMs from Kerala, Lakshadweep, and Andaman Nicobar, has entered into impactful MoUs with BEE, marking a significant commitment to the DISCOMs-capacity building programme.

BEE’s DSM measures implementation projects, integral for bolstering energy efficiency across sectors, gain added significance with the Ministry of Power’s extended approval until FY26. The emphasis on capacity building is vital for DISCOMs to effectively implement identified DSM measures, proven to cut peak electricity demands and defer extensive investments.

BEE Secretary w on behalf of Director General Abhay Bhakre highlighted DSM as a potent tool in reducing peak electricity demands by modifying consumer electricity demand. By encouraging consumers to use less energy during peak hours and shifting consumption to off-peak hours, DSM programs significantly impact overall electric bills, Consumers in particular the domestic sector will be able to get reduced electricity monthly bills and lower operational costs for DISCOMs.

He congratulated Andhra Pradesh Special Chief Secretary of Energy K Vijayanand and CMD of EPDCL Prudwi Tej for entering into MoU with BEE for taking up DSM programs and pointed out that there was a substantial surge in APEPDCL demand – catapulting from 3900 MW last year to a formidable 4550 MW this year during summer. He complimented EPDCL for adopting latest technologies and best practices in providing the best services to the consumers and stood number one position in reducing aggregate and commercial losses.

Among others, ViceChairman-cum-Managing VC of TSREDCO Janaiah, CEO of AP State Energy Conservation Mission Kumar Reddy and others attended the review meeting.