Govt orders energy-saving steps, electricity austerity in public offices

The Cabinet Division has directed government offices across the country to conserve electricity and take other energy-saving measures in response to the current global crisis.

Officials and employees of all government, autonomous and corporate bodies have been instructed to adopt responsible and economical use of energy.

In a letter today (5 March), the Cabinet Division issued the directive to all secretaries, divisional commissioners, and deputy commissioners across the country.

According to the letter, lights should be avoided during the daytime when sufficient natural light is available.

Offices have been advised to keep windows, doors, or blinds open to maximise the use of natural light.

Only half of the existing lighting should be used, and unnecessary lights must remain switched off.

During office hours, extra lights, fans, air conditioners and other electrical appliances that are not needed must be turned off.

The letter also added that air conditioners should be set at 25 degrees celsius or higher.

When leaving office rooms, officials must ensure that lights, fans, air conditioners, and all electrical equipment are switched off.

Unnecessary lighting in corridors, stairways, and washrooms should be avoided, and energy-efficient appliances should be used wherever possible.

Additionally, all electrical equipment, including lights, fans, computers, printers, scanners and air conditioners must be turned off after office hours.

The directive also calls for avoiding decorative lighting and limiting the use of vehicles in order to reduce fuel consumption.