Integrated Rural Energy Programme a big hit in Andaman

Port Blair, May 21 (UNI) The Integrated Rural Energy Programme (IREP), which has given desired results in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has proved to be a big hit in these remote islands.

The IREP was implemented in Andaman and Nicobar Islands through the Island's Electricity Department.

Under the programme, surveys of different Islands, blocks and areas were conducted to assess the energy requirements of rural households for cooking, lighting and heating purposes.

''We got very good response from the islanders,'' S V Krishna, the Executive Engineer of NRSE in Andaman told UNI today.

To popularise the programme, the Electricity department has also organised a series of seminars, awareness camps and training programmes in different far-flung islands.

So far, 182 biogas plants, 40,333 improved chulhas, 7,252 solar lanterns, 69 solar home systems, 25 solar street lights and 2,870 improved kerosene stoves have been installed or distributed in these islands under various renewable energy programmes, Mr Krishna said.

UNI SKR PL/src SG RN1753