New Delhi

Power distribution company BSES has urged its 54 lakh consumers and nearly 2.25 crore residents across South, West, East, and Central Delhi to take part in Earth Hour 2026 by switching off non-essential lights for one hour on March 28.

The initiative, scheduled from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM, is part of a global movement that encourages individuals, businesses, and institutions to contribute towards environmental sustainability through simple collective action.

With this year’s theme, “Give an Hour for Earth,” the campaign calls on citizens to dedicate time to support the planet and adopt environmentally conscious practices. BSES, in partnership with WWF-India, said the effort goes beyond a symbolic gesture and aims to inspire long-term behavioural change.

Marking 20 years since its launch in 2007, Earth Hour has grown from a single-city initiative in Sydney into a worldwide campaign spanning over 190 countries and territories, mobilising people to act on climate change and sustainability.

Delhi has shown increasing participation in recent years. The city recorded a reduction of around 206 MW during the event in 2024, which rose to 269 MW in 2025, reflecting growing awareness among residents. Authorities aim to build on this momentum and strengthen Delhi’s role in urban climate action.

BSES said its commitment to sustainability extends beyond Earth Hour, highlighting initiatives such as rooftop solar installations, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and battery energy storage systems. The company has facilitated over 13,000 rooftop solar connections and more than 6,300 EV charging points, while steadily increasing its share of green energy.

A spokesperson for BSES said the campaign demonstrates the impact of collective effort, especially in a city like Delhi, where even small reductions in power consumption can contribute to a cleaner environment.

WWF-India also acknowledged BSES’s continued support, noting that the partnership has helped expand the reach of the campaign and encourage more sustainable lifestyles.

To raise awareness, BSES is running outreach campaigns through SMS alerts, digital platforms, its Samvad newsletter, and engagement with resident welfare associations and institutions. The company will also switch off non-essential lighting across its offices during the designated hour.

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As the city prepares to participate on March 28, the initiative underscores how coordinated action by individuals can send a strong message in support of a sustainable future.