India's E-cooking Transition on World Environment Day | 05 Jun 2023

Why in News?

World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5^th, serves as a platform to raise awareness about environmental protection and sustainability.

• On the 50^th anniversary of this significant day, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and the Collaborative Labeling and Appliance Standards Program (CLASP), an international non-governmental organization organized a "Conference on Consumer-Centric Approaches for E-cooking Transition" in New Delhi.
  • The conference aimed to accelerate the deployment of energy-efficient, clean, and affordable e-cooking solutions in India.

What are the Key Highlights About World Environment Day 2023?

• About:
  • The United Nations Assembly established World Environment Day on 5^th June 1972, which was the first day of the Stockholm Conference on the human environment.
  • It is hosted by a different country each year.
    • India in 2018 hosted the 45^th celebration of World Environment Day under the theme ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’.
  • The year 2023 World Environment Day is hosted by Côte d'Ivoire in partnership with the Netherlands.
  • This year marks the 50^th anniversary of World Environment Day.
• Theme for 2023:
  • The theme will focus on solutions to plastic pollution under the campaign #BeatPlasticPollution.
• Objective:
  • Raise awareness, mobilize communities, and encourage collaborative efforts to address plastic pollution and promote a healthier and more sustainable environment.

What is E-Cooking?

• About:
  • E-cooking involves the use of electric cooking appliances as a clean and energy-efficient alternative to traditional cooking methods.
  • It encompasses the adoption of electric stoves, induction cooktops, and other electric cooking devices in households.
• Transition to E-cooking:
  • India's achievement of 24/7 electricity access has been a significant driver for the transition to e-cooking.
  • The Saubhagya Scheme has played a pivotal role in providing electricity connections to millions of households, eliminating power cuts, and creating an environment conducive to the adoption of electric cooking.
• The Role of LiFE:
  • E-cooking plays a vital role in the Mission Lifestyle for Environment(LiFE) initiative.
    • Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 26^th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in 2021.
    • Mission LiFE aims to transform individuals into pro-planet advocates and promote sustainable lifestyles.
  • Access to clean cooking energy is an essential aspect of India's energy transition journey, aligning with the goals of Mission LiFE.
• E-Cooking as the Future of the Indian Kitchen:
  • With reliable electricity access, e-cooking is poised to become the future of Indian kitchens.
  • The scalability and affordability of electric cooking technology make it a viable option for both urban and rural areas.
• Affordable E-Cooking Business Models:
  • Developing affordable business models is crucial to promote widespread adoption of e-cooking solutions.
  • Utilizing renewable energy sources, such as solar and thermal power, can help reduce costs and make e-cooking more accessible.
  • Implementing aggregation models and price reduction strategies can further enhance affordability, enabling e-cooking to reach a larger population.
• Minimal Technology Barriers:
  • E-cooking faces minimal technology barriers, as concerns regarding appliance faults and compatibility with various dishes have been addressed.
  • Replicating successful e-cooking models at scale and gradually replacing traditional cookers with electric ones can build consumer confidence and facilitate a smooth transition.
• Benefits for the Power Sector and Consumers:
  • E-cooking presents a win-win situation for both the power sector and consumers.
  • It aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7.1, ensuring universal access to clean cooking and improving indoor air quality.
  • E-cooking can reduce energy consumption in reheating and contribute to a cleaner, greener lifestyle.

What are the Other Initiatives Shaping India’s Energy Transition?

• Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGYA)
• Green Energy Corridor (GEC)
• National Smart Grid Mission (NSGM) and Smart Meter National Programme
• Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME)
• International Solar Alliance (ISA)

Source: PIB