India is set to implement new regulations for air conditioner (AC) usage, mandating that these appliances operate within a temperature range of 20°C to 28°C. Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, announced this initiative, emphasizing its aim to enhance energy efficiency and curb excessive electricity consumption across the country. The new rules will apply to all ACs, including those in homes, offices, shops, industrial settings, and even vehicles.
The primary goal of this unprecedented move is to reduce the strain on India's power grid, particularly during peak summer months when electricity demand surges. Currently, many AC users set temperatures as low as 16°C, leading to increased energy consumption. By standardizing the temperature range, the government expects to significantly lower electricity bills and promote more responsible energy usage.
Minister Khattar highlighted that this standardization is a "first-of-its-kind experiment" designed to bring uniformity to air conditioning use. He noted that the new rules would override existing temperature settings on ACs, which typically allow users to set temperatures between 16°C and 30°C. Manufacturers will need to reprogram their devices to comply with the 20°C to 28°C range.
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) had previously mandated in 2020 that all star-labeled room and car ACs have a default temperature setting of 24°C. In commercial buildings, temperature settings could be adjusted between 24°C and 25°C. The new regulation builds upon this foundation, setting a firm boundary for temperature control.
According to officials, the decision stems from growing concerns about climate change, rising temperatures, and the increasing use of cooling devices. Studies suggest that raising the AC temperature by just 1°C can reduce energy consumption by approximately 6%. If all AC users were to adjust their thermostats just one degree higher, India could save around 3 gigawatts of power during peak hours.
The government is currently consulting with various stakeholders, including manufacturers and automotive industry representatives, to finalize the implementation details. Once these consultations are complete, the new guidelines will be issued, and the rule will be enforced nationwide, covering all 28 states.
In addition to the AC temperature regulation, the government is also focused on boosting green energy and storage solutions. Minister Khattar announced that the Centre would invite companies to build battery storage systems with a total capacity of 30 gigawatt-hours. These batteries will help store solar and wind power, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The government plans to offer ₹5,400 crore in subsidies to attract companies to this sector.
This dual approach of regulating AC temperatures and promoting renewable energy sources underscores India's commitment to sustainable development and energy conservation. By implementing these measures, the government aims to create a more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible future for the nation.
