Shimla, March 29 (IANS): In an initiative to promote energy efficiency, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh on Wednesday launched a scheme here to distribute light-emitting diode (LED) tubelights and energy-efficient fans.

The scheme Ujala or 'Unnat Jeevan by Affordable LEDs and Appliances for All' is an extension of the state's domestic efficient lightning programme.

The Chief Minister said Ujala was an integral part of state's energy conservation initiative and had been successfully adopted by the people.

Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of public sector unit of the Union Ministry of Power, will implement the Ujala programme in the state in a phased manner in collaboration with the state.

Virbhadra Singh said energy efficiency was a key thrust area of the state and emphasis had been laid on scaling up its implementation.

"The launch of this initiative follows our commitment of such programme in 2015-16 for distribution of LED bulbs. Approximately, 74 lakh bulbs to 12 lakh consumers have been distributed which resulted into energy saving of approximately 150 MU per annum," a statement quoting the Chief Minister said.

Himachal Pradesh Power Minister Sujan Singh Pathania said an LED tubelight would cost Rs 230 with three years of free replacement warranty.

Likewise, a five-star rating 50 watt ceiling fan that will replace conventional 75 watt fan will cost Rs 1,150 with two years of free replacement warranty.