PNS|Visakhapatnam
The Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL) has inaugurated an energy-efficient training centre at Sagar Nagar, marking a significant step towards sustainable public infrastructure. Designed to reduce power consumption by nearly 50 per cent, the facility is expected to serve as a benchmark in eco-conscious construction within the government sector.
Covering APEPDCL’s operational belt from Srikakulam to Eluru, the ground-plus-two-storey building has been developed at a cost of Rs 13.5 crore. Of this, Rs 5 crore was sanctioned by the Central Government under its energy efficiency initiatives, while the remaining ?8.5 crore was met by APEPDCL. The structure complies with the Super Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) framed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), integrating cutting-edge technologies to promote energy conservation.
The building features cavity wall construction using Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) blocks with wool and thermocol insulation to restrict heat ingress. Its roof employs cool roof technology with reflective foil and double sealing to reduce heat absorption. Double-glazed windows ensure natural daylight and regulate indoor temperatures, while a centralised air-conditioning system, supported by a single outdoor unit, enables efficient automated climate control.
Of the 1.5-acre campus, only the ground floor is used for training activities. The upper floors have been leased through a competitive tendering process managed by the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA). Lemon Tree Hotels secured the lease and has agreed to maintain the ground floor—excluding staffing costs—offering financial relief to the utility.
“This is a self-sustaining model that eliminates recurring maintenance costs,” said Prithvi Tej Immadi, Chairman and Managing Director of APEPDCL. “The leasing revenue will run into crores annually. Additionally, the 50-kW solar plant installed on-site reinforces our commitment to clean energy.”
