BEE pushes commercial electric cooking to accelerate shift from LPG to electricity

Why in News?

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Union Ministry of Power is promoting the adoption of electric cooking in commercial and institutional kitchens to improve energy efficiency, enhance energy security and reduce dependence on LPG. BEE organised the “Commercial Induction Cooking Showcase & Chef Challenge” in New Delhi under the theme “Accelerating India’s Electric Cooking Ambition: From Technology Demonstration to Real-World Adoption.”

About Electric Cooking

Electric cooking uses appliances such as induction cooktops, electric burners and electric ovens to generate or transfer heat without the direct use of a gas flame. Modern electric appliances provide consistent and controllable heating, while electric ovens can distribute heat more evenly. Many electric ranges also use convection fans to circulate hot air, enabling faster cooking and more uniform browning.

Compared with gas cooking, electric cooking can offer simpler installation and easier maintenance, particularly for smooth-top electric cookers. Electric cooktops do not require gas or LPG connections and avoid the need to clean burner grates, caps and ports. However, electric burners generally retain residual heat after being switched off, meaning the cooking surface may remain hot for some time.