February 22, the Parliament held a debate on "Energy Efficiency and Alternative Energy" on the initiative of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Artsakh Republic and chaired by Vladimir Kasyan, Chair of the Standing Committee on Production and Manufacturing Infrastructure.

The Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Artsakh Republic Hayk Khanumyan noted that the relevant provisions have been made taking into account the proposals voiced by the deputies during the discussion of the draft state budget for 2021.

Levon Gabrielyan, Head of the Department of Energy of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Artsakh Republic, made a report on the presented topic which proposes to use the following energy saving options.

1. The purpose of capital investment of LED lamps is to inform the population about the possibility of savings through affordable and energy efficient technologies. These bulbs consume 10 times less electricity, shelf life is up to 10 years, and electricity bills are reduced by 30-60%. According to that, 1 LED lamp saves at least 24,000 AMD during 36 months.
2. The purpose of operating water heaters is the development of solar technologies (the reduction of water heating costs will be about 120,000 drams per year).
3. Solar photovoltaic panels. The electrical system allows to produce electricity in a clean, safe and quiet way, which will compensate for electricity costs and minimize dependence on the electrical system.
4. Power backup (accumulation systems). The systems in conjunction with solar panels can provide uninterrupted power supply in the event of an accident in communities.

The proposed options are mainly intended for non-gasified communities. The water heaters project will be implemented mainly in rural communities.

The MPs welcomed the sector executives who the proposed energy saving options and received answers to the questions raised on the topic.

The Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Artsakh Republic Hayk Khanumyan informed that in the near future the parliamentarians will also be presented the problematic topics in the spheres under the Ministry. And today's suggestions will be submitted to the government decision.

NA President Artur Tovmasyan and Vice-President Gagik Baghunts were also present at the meeting.