State Energy Efficiency Index 2021-22 | 12 Apr 2023

Recently, the State Energy Efficiency Index (SEEI) 2021-22 has been released by the Union Minister of Power and New & Renewable Energy.

About:
- The index is developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), a statutory body under the Ministry of Power, in association with Alliance for an Energy-Efficient Economy (AEEE).
- It assesses the annual progress of states and UTs in energy efficiency (energy savings and reduction in emission intensity).
- The updated framework of 50 indicators is aligned with national priorities, and program-specific indicators are included to track outcomes and impacts of state-level energy efficiency initiatives.
- Based on the progress and accomplishments of states in energy efficiency implementation, they have been classified into four categories: Front Runner, Achiever, Contender, and Aspirant.
Significance:
- India is committed to achieving NDC goals and transitioning to a net-zero economy by 2070.
  - This requires collaboration between central and state governments, judicious resource allocation, policy alignment, and regular progress tracking.
- SEEI tracks progress in managing states' and India's energy footprint, driving energy efficiency policies and programs at the state and local levels.

Front Runner Category (>60 points):
- Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Rajasthan, and Telangana.
- Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, and Chandigarh are the top-performing states in their respective state groups, while Telangana and Andhra Pradesh showed the most improvement since the last index.
Achiever Category (50-60 points):
- Assam, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Punjab.

Enabling fiscal assistance for energy efficiency in the focus sectors
Developing institutional capacity in states and UTs to address emerging needs and challenges in energy efficiency implementation
Enhancing cross-functional collaborations across financial institutions, energy service companies, and energy professionals in large-scale energy efficiency implementation in states
Mainstreaming energy data reporting and monitoring across sectors

About:
- BEE was established on March 1st, 2002, under the provisions of the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
- The mission of BEE is to assist in developing policies and strategies for energy efficiency with the primary objective of reducing the energy intensity of the Indian economy.
Functions of BEE:
- BEE is responsible for regulatory and promotional functions as outlined in the Energy Conservation Act, 2001.
- It recognizes, identifies, and utilizes existing resources and infrastructure to perform its functions. BEE works with state governments and utilities to improve energy efficiency implementation.
- BEE's focus on energy efficiency contributes to India's climate commitments and a sustainable future.