n its bid to replace existing lights with energy efficient LED ones at various airports and buildings managed by the airports regulatory body, Airports Authority of India has signed an pact with the Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL).

ESSL is the implementing agency of UJALA (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All), world’s largest zero-subsidy domestic LED bulb programme.

The MoU entails the replacement of conventional light fixtures with LED fixtures on deemed energy savings based on Energy Service Company [ESCO] model where upfront investment is done and recouped on annuity basis during project period of five years by EESL. The entire project is estimated to cost approximately Rs 24.41 crores. EESL will carry out warranty replacement for a period of five years.

AAI has completed replacement of LED fitting for an expenditure of Rs 16 crore in Phase-I under National LED program launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Through this replacement drive, saving of around 20 million units worth Rs 14 crores will be achieved. This will lead to huge energy conservation and cost savings for AAI airports.