The UJALA Scheme | Distributing LED Bulbs

The UJALA scheme, launched on January 5, 2015, has revolutionized India’s approach to energy efficiency. Initially known as the Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme, the initiative aimed to make affordable LED lighting accessible to millions of households. By January 2025, over 36 crore LED bulbs have been distributed, marking a significant milestone in energy conservation and economic savings for Indian families.

The Origin of UJALA

The UJALA scheme was introduced to address the high electricity costs associated with traditional lighting. Conventional incandescent and compact fluorescent lamps consumed excessive energy, leading to inflated electricity bills. The adoption of LED technology offered a solution, providing energy savings and reducing operational costs.

Economic Impact

The UJALA initiative made LED bulbs accessible at significantly reduced prices. Consumers can purchase:

• LED bulbs for ₹70,
• Tube lights for ₹220,
• Energy-efficient fans for ₹1,110.

These competitive prices result from a robust bidding process that ensures affordability while covering distribution and maintenance costs. The operational cost of an LED bulb is just ₹12 annually, compared to ₹40 for a CFL and ₹108 for an incandescent lamp, highlighting the economic benefits of LEDs.

Environmental Contributions

UJALA has played a pivotal role in reducing India’s carbon footprint. By promoting energy-efficient lighting, the scheme has significantly lowered electricity consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with India’s broader climate change mitigation goals, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Key Achievements

Since its inception, UJALA has reached several milestones:

• Distribution of over 36.87 crore LED bulbs, making it the world’s largest zero-subsidy domestic lighting programme.
• Transformation of India’s lighting market, leading to significant reductions in household electricity bills and improved living standards for millions.

Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP)

Launched alongside UJALA, the Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP) focuses on replacing conventional streetlights with energy-efficient LED alternatives. Managed by EESL (Energy Efficiency Services Limited), the programme collaborates with local governments to implement energy-saving solutions across urban and rural areas. By January 2025, over 1.34 crore LED streetlights have been installed, resulting in substantial energy savings and reduced operational costs for municipalities.

Future Outlook

The success of UJALA and SLNP underscores the potential for further advancements in energy efficiency across India. Sustained government support and increased public awareness will be vital in maintaining this momentum. The integration of smart technologies and innovative business models promises to enhance the scope and effectiveness of future energy-saving initiatives.

This decade-long journey of the UJALA scheme exemplifies how focused policies and public participation can drive significant progress in energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.