Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Corporation Limited (KREDL) is shortly launching a big scheme to replace all incandescent bulbs (IBs) in the entire state with the energy efficient compact flurosceent lamps (CFLs) to save energy.
Under the scheme, which will be done jointly by the KREDL and the Hyderabad-based Banyan Environmental Innovations Private Limited, CFL will  be supplied at a price of Rs 10-12 , which is the cost of an IB. This amount has to be paid by the consumer to the Banyan.
“All urban as well as rural areas in the State will be covered under the programme which will be launched shortly after signing a Memorandum of Understanding between KREDL and Banyan Company,”said KREDL Managing Director Dr B Shivalingaiah.
Under the scheme, Banyan will supply the CFLs to all estimated 2.2 million registered domestic consumers till March 31, 2008. Banyan is committed to bring in only IS:15111 certified CFLs. “The delivery of  CFLs will be linked to the meter numbers or RR Numbers of consumers.  If the CFLs fail during the warranty period, which is 6-18 months, they would be replaced free of cost. The consumers are expected to save Rs 4000-6000 per set of four CFLs during the life of CFLs and they are under no obligation to share that amount with either KREDL or banyan.  The scheme will be effective till 2012 or replacement of all IBs with CFls whichever is earlier,” Dr Shivalingaiah explained.
It is estimated that Karnataka would be benefited by around 800-1000 MW of peak demand reduction without any investment following the implementation of the scheme. “Such capacity creation will cost the State government over Rs 3200 crore and three years of time,” Mr Shivalingaiah remarked.
“Banyan will be paid by exclusively owning 100 per cent of the Certified Emissions Reductions or Carbon Credits generated from the scheme,” he stated.