AI Generated Summary
- The evaluation for the award was based on the State Energy Efficiency Index, a comprehensive assessment framework developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency in collaboration with the Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy.
- Chandigarh has emerged as a national frontrunner in energy efficiency, clinching the top spot in the National Energy Conservation Award (NECA) 2025 in the Group–5 category, which includes Union Territories and states.
- These include mandatory procurement of star-rated appliances in government buildings, the formulation and execution of the State Energy Efficiency Action Plan, and the notification of the Energy Conservation Building Code.
Chandigarh has emerged as a national frontrunner in energy efficiency, clinching the top spot in the National Energy Conservation Award (NECA) 2025 in the Group–5 category, which includes Union Territories and states. The recognition marks a major achievement for the city’s sustained efforts to reduce energy consumption and promote efficient use of resources across sectors.
The prestigious awards are presented every year by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, to coincide with National Energy Conservation Day, observed annually on December 14. They honour states and Union Territories that demonstrate outstanding progress in energy conservation and efficiency.
Chandigarh’s top ranking is the result of a series of policy-driven and on-ground initiatives undertaken by the UT Administration. These include mandatory procurement of star-rated appliances in government buildings, the formulation and execution of the State Energy Efficiency Action Plan, and the notification of the Energy Conservation Building Code. The city has also actively promoted electric cooking and introduced a range of demand-side management and sustainability measures, contributing to measurable improvements in energy performance across sectors.
The evaluation for the award was based on the State Energy Efficiency Index, a comprehensive assessment framework developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency in collaboration with the Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy. The index measures annual performance of states and Union Territories in areas such as buildings, industry, transport and municipal services, while also factoring in policy implementation, institutional mechanisms, renewable energy integration and infrastructure development.
The award ceremony was held at Vigyan Bhawan, where President Droupadi Murmu presented the honour to UT Chief Secretary H. Rajesh Prasad and Chief Engineer C.B. Ojha.
Officials attributed the success to the focused efforts of the Energy Management Cell, functioning under the Engineering Department as the nodal agency for energy initiatives in Chandigarh. The cell has been instrumental in planning, implementing and monitoring conservation measures, as well as in systematic data collection and reporting for the State Energy Efficiency Index 2025 assessment.
This national recognition underscores the Chandigarh Administration’s long-term commitment to sustainability and climate action. By strengthening energy efficiency and conservation initiatives, the city aims to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2047—significantly ahead of India’s national target of 2070—setting a benchmark for other urban centres across the country.
