Center Asks Provinces to Implement Energy Conservation Code for Efficient Energy Use
Staff Report :
The federal government has urged the provinces to enforce the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) to promote the efficient use of energy and minimize wastage and leakage.
Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division), Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, has addressed letters to all Chief Ministers, the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), the Federal Minister for Planning, and the Federal Minister for Science and Technology, requesting the incorporation of ECBC-2023 into their respective building regulations.Pakistan and China Share Energy Security Goals: Musadik Malik
Highlighting the importance of energy efficiency, the Federal Minister emphasized the need for implementing this code to ensure mutual benefits for both the government and consumers. Inefficient electricity use in buildings leads to higher utility bills. Moreover, during peak summer months, the power sector must maintain several power plants for managing peak demand lasting 60 to 80 hours annually. These plants often remain idle during the rest of the year, resulting in additional capacity payments and higher electricity tariffs. Energy-efficient buildings, on the other hand, can also conserve natural gas by reducing heating needs in winter.
The Federal Minister identified short-duration peak loads as a significant factor in the need to maintain numerous power plants. He stated that implementing the ECBC-2023 could help manage peak demand, lower operational costs for the power sector, and reduce overall energy consumption.
In his letter, the Federal Minister proposed a two-fold strategy to ensure the sustainable development of the power sector and strengthen the country’s economy through energy-efficient construction practices. First, he recommended revising existing building regulations by relevant development authorities, municipalities, and local governments to include ECBC-2023. Second, he suggested integrating this code into Annual Development Programs for public infrastructure projects.
The Federal Minister expressed confidence that adopting ECBC-2023 would lead to reduced operational expenses and support sustainable economic growth. He also highlighted the approval of the code by the Federal Cabinet and the National Economic Council (NEC).
The ECBC-2023 is now available on the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) website (https://neeca.gov.pk/Download) for public access. Citizens are encouraged to leverage this valuable resource to contribute to sustainability initiatives.
