Patna: Patna airport is set to take a major step towards reducing its energy consumption.

The Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), an energy service company of the Centre, will help the airport management usher in this change. A memorandum of understanding was signed between EESL and Patna airport on Tuesday to replace energy-guzzling electrical fittings with new ones that consume less energy.

A.R. Swaminathan, deputy general manager of Patna airport, signed the agreement with Rakesh Pratap, ESSL's regional manager in Bihar.

Swaminathan said: "The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has signed an agreement with EESL to take steps that would reduce energy consumption. This is being implemented in all the 126 airports and as part of this move, the Patna airport signed the agreement here."

Some of the major works to be carried out include replacing around 1,000 indoor tubelights and panel lights with LEDs, and replace 200 streetlights and outdoor lights on the airport premises with LEDs.

The old model air-conditioners will also be replaced with energy-efficient ones.

"According to our estimate, Patna airport will save around Rs 15.59 lakh per annum on its energy bill," EESL regional manager Rakesh Pratap said.

Patna airport would not have to bear any upfront cost for this makeover, instead will pay the amount from its energy savings.

On the likely time to be taken, Rakesh said: "We are aiming to complete the work in three months. The actual work will start in a fortnight during which we will mobilise resources."