Federal Minister for Energy, Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, has urged all chief ministers, the Prime Minister of AJK, and federal ministers for planning and science and technology to incorporate the Energy Conservation Building Code 2023 (ECBC-2023) into relevant building laws.
Highlighting the need for efficient energy utilization and reduced wastage, the minister emphasized that implementing ECBC-2023 will benefit both the government and consumers by lowering electricity bills and conserving natural resources. He pointed out that inefficient electricity use increases utility costs and necessitates the maintenance of idle power plants for peak summer loads, contributing to higher electricity tariffs.
The ECBC-2023 aims to enhance energy efficiency in buildings, helping reduce operational costs and heating demands during winters. By addressing peak load issues, the code can also lower operational expenses for the power sector.
The minister proposed a two-pronged strategy: revising building bylaws to include ECBC-2023 and integrating the code into public sector infrastructure development programs. He expressed confidence that these measures would support sustainable development and strengthen the country’s economy.
The ECBC-2023, approved by the Federal Cabinet and National Economic Council, is now available on the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) website for public access.