The UJALA scheme, launched on January 5, 2015, has revolutionized India’s approach to energy efficiency. Standing for “Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All,” this initiative has made affordable LED lighting accessible to millions of households, reducing energy consumption and lowering electricity bills across the country. As of January 2025, the scheme has distributed over 36 crore LED bulbs, marking a significant milestone in energy conservation and economic savings for Indian families.
The Need for UJALA
The UJALA scheme was introduced to address the inefficiencies of traditional lighting systems. Incandescent and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) consumed excessive energy, leading to high electricity costs for households. The advent of LED technology presented an opportunity for change, offering energy efficiency, longevity, and reduced operational costs. UJALA was designed to bring these benefits to the masses, creating a shift toward sustainable lighting solutions.
Economic Impact of the UJALA Scheme
One of the key successes of UJALA lies in its affordability. Through a competitive bidding process, LED bulbs, tube lights, and energy-efficient fans were made available at significantly reduced prices:
- LED bulbs: Rs 70
- Tube lights: Rs 220
- Energy-efficient fans: Rs 1,110
The cost-effectiveness of LEDs is evident in their operational expenses. While the annual operating cost of an incandescent lamp is Rs 108 and a CFL is Rs 40, an LED bulb operates at just Rs 12 annually. This affordability has enabled households to save on electricity bills, further driving the adoption of energy-efficient technology.
Environmental Benefits
The UJALA scheme has made a significant contribution to reducing India’s carbon footprint. By promoting the use of LED lighting, the programme has helped lower national electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. These environmental benefits align with India’s climate change mitigation goals, making UJALA a cornerstone of the country’s sustainability efforts.
Achievements of the UJALA Scheme
Since its inception, UJALA has achieved several remarkable milestones:
- 36.87 crore LED bulbs distributed: UJALA stands as the world’s largest zero-subsidy domestic lighting programme.
- Market transformation: The share of LEDs in the Indian lighting market grew from less than 1% in 2013 to over 40% in 2025.
- CO₂ reduction: The programme has contributed significantly to reducing India’s carbon emissions.
These achievements underscore the scheme’s impact on improving household energy efficiency and transforming the lighting market in India.
The Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP)
Launched alongside UJALA, the Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP) focuses on replacing conventional streetlights with energy-efficient LED alternatives. The programme, implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), works with local governments to upgrade public lighting infrastructure in urban and rural areas.
Key achievements of the SLNP as of January 2025 include:
- 1.34 crore LED streetlights installed, leading to substantial energy savings.
- Annual CO₂ reduction of 6.2 million tonnes, contributing to India’s climate goals.
- Cost savings for municipalities, with reduced energy bills and maintenance expenses.
The SLNP complements UJALA by extending energy efficiency initiatives to public spaces, further amplifying the programme’s impact.
Benefits of LED Technology
The adoption of LED technology under the UJALA and SLNP schemes has brought numerous advantages:
- Long lifespan: LEDs last significantly longer than traditional lighting, reducing waste and replacement costs.
- Energy efficiency: LEDs consume up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs.
- Cost savings: Lower energy consumption translates into significant financial savings for households and municipalities.
Future Prospects of Energy Efficiency in India
As UJALA and SLNP celebrate a decade of success, the potential for further advancements in energy efficiency is immense. Continued government support and public awareness will be key to sustaining this momentum. Future initiatives may incorporate smart technologies and innovative business models to enhance the reach and effectiveness of energy-saving programmes.
The UJALA scheme has not only transformed India’s lighting market but has also set a global benchmark for energy efficiency initiatives. With its focus on affordability, environmental sustainability, and economic benefits, UJALA serves as a model for other nations aiming to promote sustainable development.
As India enters the next decade of energy efficiency, the lessons and achievements of the UJALA scheme will continue to guide its path toward a greener and more sustainable future.