What is the issue?

• The World Energy Conservation Day is being celebrated every year on December 14 since 1991.
• In this context, it is imperative to look at some simple citizen-oriented measures towards energy conservation.

How is the consumption scenario?

• The global population stands at 7.2 billion and is growing, posing threat to world’s depleting natural resources.
• Global Footprint Network’s 2018 report notes that people are consuming resources 1.7 times faster than what Earth's ecosystems can regenerate.
• One of the key reasons for this is over-consumption and wastage of energy.
• All these demand some simple yet effective steps to correct course for ensuring a greener, safer planet for future generations.

What could the possible steps be?

• Conscious use of electrical and electronic appliances, lights and fans would go a long way in saving energy.
• Energy-efficient technologies consuming less energy and having a net zero impact on environment should increasingly be adopted.
• As citizens, a key step would be to adopt more energy efficient sources of lighting such as LED lights which save up to 70% energy.
• Energy efficient lighting products in India are projected to grow at a CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 24.66%, in value terms between 2016 and 2022.
• It is also expected to reach $3,759 million by 2022.
• Smart technology - Investing in Internet of Things (IoT) and connected devices can also work at this end.
• Some of these include voice-controlled smart home products that are Wi-Fi enabled - smart switches, door bells, sensors, cameras, lights, etc.
• Smart appliances that interact with each other and share information using IoT can significantly reduce energy wastage and reduce costs.
• The Indian smart home market is expected to grow at an annual CAGR of 51.8% between 2018 and 2023.
• The Government of India (GOI) too has introduced a slew of schemes in the recent past to inculcate energy saving habits.
• These include promotion of energy efficient lighting products on urban and rural streets, government buildings, parks and other public places.