The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Bhutan to extend cooperation in the field of Energy Efficiency and Energy Conservation Measures. This significant agreement aims to bolster bilateral ties and enhance energy efficiency initiatives between the two nations.
Key Highlights of the MoU:
Partnership Framework: The MoU was signed between the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power, Government of India, and the Department of Energy, Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Royal Government of Bhutan. It establishes a collaborative framework for cooperation in promoting energy efficiency and conservation measures.
Focus Areas:
•India will assist Bhutan in enhancing energy efficiency in the household sector by promoting the star labeling program developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency.
•India will share its experience in formulating building codes tailored to Bhutan’s climate conditions.
•The MoU envisions the creation of a pool of energy professionals in Bhutan through the institutionalization of training programs for energy auditors.
•India will support Bhutan in developing and implementing the Standards and Labelling scheme to promote energy-efficient products.
•The agreement recognizes the growing demand for energy-intensive appliances in households and commercial establishments, leading to increased energy consumption. Through initiatives like the Star-labelling program, India aims to optimize energy consumption by encouraging the adoption of high-efficiency appliances.
•The MoU has been prepared by the Ministry of Power in consultation with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
• The agreement facilitates the exchange of information, data, and technical experts between India and Bhutan in the field of energy efficiency and conservation. This collaboration will contribute to Bhutan’s efforts to ensure the availability of energy-efficient products in its market.
•The MoU also includes provisions for analyzing energy efficiency policies and cooperation in energy efficiency research and technology deployment.
The signing of this MoU underscores India’s commitment to fostering regional cooperation and promoting sustainable development through energy efficiency initiatives. By leveraging mutual expertise and resources, India and Bhutan aim to achieve significant progress in the realm of energy conservation and contribute to global efforts towards a greener future.
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