Calling for conservation of energy through use of Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a scheme for their distribution under the Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme (DELP) in Delhi.
Describing the LED bulb as a ‘Prakash Path’ (way to light), Modi said that it was much more economical to conserve power than to produce power.
He also added that this initiative was expected to reduce import bills and save the environment.
The Prime Minister also launched a web-based system to enable consumers in Delhi to register requests for procuring LED bulbs under DELP.
Distribution in phased manner
LED bulbs shall be distributed in a phased manner from March 2015 onwards, an official statement said.
LED bulbs have almost 50 times more life expectancy than ordinary bulbs and 8-10 times than that of CFLs, and therefore provide both energy and cost savings in the medium term.
Project completion slated for March 2016
The entire project of installing these Light Emitting Diode bulbs for domestic and street-lighting in 100 cities is targeted for completion by March 2016.
In Delhi, LED bulbs will be provided to all domestic consumers at an initial payment of Rs. 10 each and recovery of Rs. 10 each for 12 months from their electricity bill.
Hence, the cost for an LED bulb to domestic consumer will be Rs. 130 through this programme due to bulk procurement, compared to the current open market retail price in the range of Rs. 350- Rs. 600 for LED bulbs.
The estimated annual savings for households in Delhi per LED bulb will be Rs. 162.
These Light Emitting Diode bulbs will have a warranty of 3 years.
