The World Energy Conservation Day is being celebrated every year on December 14 since 1991.
In this context, it is imperative to look at some simple citizen-oriented measures towards energy conservation.
How is the consumption scenario?
The global population stands at 7.2 billion and is growing, posing threat to world’s depleting natural resources.
Global Footprint Network’s 2018 report notes that people are consuming resources 1.7 times faster than what Earth's ecosystems can regenerate.
One of the key reasons for this is over-consumption and wastage of energy.
All these demand some simple yet effective steps to correct course for ensuring a greener, safer planet for future generations.
What could the possible steps be?
Conscious use of electrical and electronic appliances, lights and fans would go a long way in saving energy.
Energy-efficient technologies consuming less energy and having a net zero impact on environment should increasingly be adopted.
As citizens, a key step would be to adopt more energy efficient sources of lighting such as LED lights which save up to 70% energy.
Energy efficient lighting products in India are projected to grow at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 24.66%, in value terms between 2016 and 2022.
It is also expected to reach $3,759 million by 2022.
Smart technology - Investing in Internet of Things (IoT) and connected devices can also work at this end.
Some of these include voice-controlled smart home products that are Wi-Fi enabled - smart switches, door bells, sensors, cameras, lights, etc.
Smart appliances that interact with each other and share information using IoT can significantly reduce energy wastage and reduce costs.
The Indian smart home market is expected to grow at an annual CAGR of 51.8% between 2018 and 2023.
The Government of India (GOI) too has introduced a slew of schemes in the recent past to inculcate energy saving habits.
These include promotion of energy efficient lighting products on urban and rural streets, government buildings, parks and other public places.
