In a move to strengthen bilateral ties and foster sustainable development, the Union Cabinet of India has granted ex post facto approval to an initial pact between India and Bhutan focusing on cooperation in the crucial field of energy efficiency and conservation measures.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), inked between the Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, and the Department of Energy under the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, Government of Bhutan, marks a significant step towards mutual collaboration in addressing energy challenges.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, chairing the Union Cabinet session, emphasized the importance of the agreement, highlighting its potential to enhance energy efficiency in Bhutan’s household sector. Through the promotion of India’s star labeling program developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), India aims to assist Bhutan in adopting standards and labeling schemes for energy-intensive appliances.
Union Cabinet approves signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Bhutan on General Supply of Petroleum, Oil, Lubricants (POL) and related products from India to Bhutan.@narendramodi#CabinetDecisions pic.twitter.com/D5FNstSjzn
— Kiren Rijiju (मोदी का परिवार) (@KirenRijiju) March 13, 2024
The statement issued by the Union Cabinet underscored the pressing need to address the rising demand for electrical energy, driven primarily by energy-intensive consumer goods. It emphasized the role of high-efficiency appliances in optimizing energy consumption, thereby mitigating the escalating demand for electrical energy.
Bhutan, known for its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development, stands to benefit significantly from India’s expertise in energy efficiency measures. The MoU envisages the exchange of information, data, and technical expertise between the two countries, facilitating collaborative efforts towards energy conservation.
India’s star-labeling program, encompassing 37 appliances integral to daily life, serves as a model for promoting energy efficiency and consumer awareness. By leveraging India’s experience and resources, Bhutan aims to develop and implement similar initiatives tailored to its unique energy landscape.
The MoU, crafted through consultations between the Ministry of Power, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), reflects the shared commitment of India and Bhutan towards sustainable development and regional cooperation.
In a world grappling with the challenges of climate change and energy security, initiatives such as the India-Bhutan cooperation on energy efficiency assume paramount importance. As Bhutan endeavors to harness its abundant renewable energy resources while ensuring energy security and environmental sustainability, collaborative partnerships with neighboring countries like India are instrumental in realizing these aspirations.
The pact between India and Bhutan not only underscores the depth of bilateral relations but also paves the way for meaningful cooperation in addressing common challenges and advancing shared goals in the energy sector. As both nations embark on this collaborative journey towards a greener and more sustainable future, the benefits of such partnerships are poised to extend far beyond national borders, positively impacting the entire region.