The state cabinet took this decision two days ago. Issuing an order on Monday, it was decided that all new government buildings under construction would only utilise CFLs, whereas the old buildings will replace them.

 The government has also directed the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) to increase the awareness among the people of the benefits of CFLs.

“This decision will be applicable for all government institutions like corporations, organisations and government-aided bodies. Purchase of new incandescent bulbs has also been banned in these organisations. Henceforth, all fused bulbs will be replaced by CFLs only,” said V N Garg, Principal Secretary, Energy.

As per official calculations, use of CFLs will aid in the saving of at least 10 per cent energy, which will help in bridging the gap between demand and supply. It will decrease the electricity load by 1,000mega watt during peak hours, which will further conserve 120mega unit of electricity per month, thereby ensuring a monthly saving of Rs 72 crore.

Earlier, Chief Minister Mayawati, immediately after taking over the charge of the state, had said that her government will make all efforts to save electricity.

After this step, what becomes imperative is the availability of cost effective CFLs to the public and to encourage the use of CFLs. Under the United Nations Clean Development Mechanism (UNCDM) Project, the government in April, signed agreements with two companies, Cantor CO2e and Banyan Environmental Innovations, for the supply of CFLs on subsidised rates (Rs 10 and 12).

“The companies have been given six months to get themselves registered with the UNCDM and then start promoting CFLs. By September end they are expected to start their work,” said Arun, Director Distribution.