Leh, June 13: Chairman/CEC, Tashi Gyalson had a meeting with His Excellency Dr. Ralf Heckner, the Ambassador of Switzerland to India and Bhutan, to discuss important matters pertaining to energy efficiency and climate change. The Swiss Ambassador was accompanied by Jonathan Demenge, Head of International Cooperation and Counsellor at the Embassy of Switzerland in India and Bhutan, Dr. Anand Shukla, Senior Advisor, and other officials.

The meeting majorly focused on addressing concerns related to the efficient utilisation of natural and renewable energies, the impact of climate change, and various issues concerning the environment and sustainable development measures.

CEC Tashi Gyalson warmly welcomed the Swiss delegates to Leh and highlighted the steps being taken by the Hill Council, Leh, and the Administration of UT Ladakh to minimise the region’s carbon footprint, in line with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi to make Ladakh a carbon-neutral region. CEC Gyalson also emphasised ongoing initiatives, such as the establishment of a Mega Solar Power Plant in Leh, the exploration of geothermal energy, and hydrogen energy in Ladakh.

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In an effort to promote the usage of electric vehicles, CEC Gyalson informed the delegates that the Hill Council, Leh, and the Ladakh Administration are aiming to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles by providing them at subsidised rates. This initiative includes a 50% subsidy on public transportation vehicles, such as E-Buses, and a 20% subsidy on commercial E-Cars.

Appreciating the initiatives undertaken by the Hill Council and the Administration, Ambassador Dr. Ralf Heckner commended the stakeholders of the newly formed Union Territory of Ladakh for their commitment to adopting renewable energy measures. He highlighted the successful collaboration between India and Switzerland on climate change and development, particularly in the areas of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and climate change.

Furthermore, Dr. Ralf Heckner discussed the potential implementation of geothermal heat pumps and other energy efficiency projects in Leh with Swiss support, thereby strengthening the ties between the two nations. He further emphasised working together toward energy efficiency, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development.

Both parties engaged in fruitful discussions on potential collaborations for future initiatives and sustainable development projects.