Bengaluru saved just 43 MW of power when the Earth Hour was observed from 8.30 to 9.30 pm on Saturday. This is just one MW more than that of last year.
Most commercial establishments, including malls, did not turn off lights as it was weekend - the time they make more business. Industries too did not turn off lights. The same was the case with many residential customers, a Bescom official said.
Various campaigns were organised across the City to spread the message and make them switch off lights during the Earth Hour. Many environmental organisations tried to draw the attention of Bengalureans towards Earth Hour with focus on climate change and energy conservation, but that seems to have had little impact.
However, many government offices had turned off lights and used minimal electricity.
Bescom had estimated to save 80-100 MW power during Earth Hour this year, but what was achieved in reality was just half of it. On an average 4,300 MW is consumed between 8.30 and 9.30 pm. This is because of summer heat when people turn on their air conditioners. The use of electrical kitchen appliances, television sets, computers and laptops push up the consumption, the official said.
Maximum consumption
Maximum consumption of power during this period is for domestic and industrial purposes. the offices usually close down by 5 pm and only some IT firms function.
But this time, many establishments did not even maintain minimal lighting or use alternative energy. The number of consumers has increased compared to last year and if power supply was switched off, then the numbers would have been different, the official added.
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