Austerity measures made mandatory to save power

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FE Report
The cabinet recently approved the 14-point proposal of the power ministry making some austerity measures mandatory that would save power consumption in government and private offices.
With the approval of the measures, all government, semi-government and autonomous bodies will have to use Concentrated Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) in their offices.
As per the order, use of CFL bulb will be made mandatory in those offices gradually.
The decisions were taken in a recent cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The cabinet has instructed all concerned ministries and departments to implement the measures within the shortest possible time.
Cabinet division has circulated the order, signed by PM, in all relevant ministries and departments recently.
According to the order, the government will start a massive campaign to encourage people to use solar panel, CFL, electronic ballast for saving power.
The order said: "All government, semi-government and autonomous bodies will have to install solar panels within the next three years to run electric lights and fans."
It has also directed to incorporate a rule in the 'building code' that would ensure installation of solar panels in every building for running lights and fans.
For saving gas, the order has asked to arrange a common kitchen with sufficient gas burners in every floor in all college and university hostels and dormitories.
As per the order, the government will have to take steps to stop production of electric heaters and incandescent bulbs in phases.
The government will make solar panels, CFL bulbs and electronic ballasts available and encourage production of the power saving electric appliances, the cabinet order said.
The order has asked all government and private offices to stop running air conditioners at least for one hour a day and ensure maximum use of day-light.
It has also given instruction to use solar power for running shallow tubewells for agricultural purpose.
Talking to the FE, a power ministry official said: "The measures will help minimise recent power crunch. We have to utilise abundance of solar power to run lights, fans and follow the austerity measures."
Day-light saving move by forwarding the clock one hour ahead has already shown some positive impact in power saving, he said.
On June 19, the government decided to advance the clock by an hour from the zero hour for minimising the prevailing power crisis.
Presently the country produces 3,800 mega watt (MW) power against peak hour demand for 5,500mw.