Parikh Commitee outlines new energy policy

New Delhi, Aug 30 (UNI) The Report of the Expert Committee on 'Integrated Energy Policy' released here today has made out a strong case for aggressive pursuit of energy efficiency which could entail a savings of 25 per cent in fuel consumption and laid out a road map for ensuring adequate supply of power at cheap prices, especially to the poor.

The major areas where efficiency in energy use can make a substantial impact are mining, electricity generation, electricity transmission and distribution, water pumping, industrial production processes, haulage, mass transport, building design, construction, heating, ventillation, air conditioning, lighting and household appliances.

Addressing a Press Conference, Dr Kirit Parikh, Chairman of the Committee and Member of the Planning Commission, said India pays one of the highest prices for energy in purchasing power parity terms.

''This has eroded the competitiveness of many sectors of the economy. The challenge is to ensure adequate supply of energy at least possible cost,'' he said.

Dr Parikh said a key challenge is to provide clean and convenient 'lifeline' energy to the poor even when they cannot fully pay for it, as it was critical to their well being. In this regard, it has outlined an "effective and comprehensive energy policy".

The Commitee, set up at the behest of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, submitted its Report to Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia.

Dr Ahluwalia said the Committee has provided a broad overarching framework for guiding the policies governing the production and use of different forms of energy from various sources.

The Report recommends consistent relative policies, level playing field for all players, uniform treatment of externalities and development of public infrastructure, regionally balanced developments and energy for the poor.

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