The Indian government is poised to implement significant changes regarding air conditioner (AC) usage. A new regulation may soon limit AC operation to a minimum of 20°C and a maximum of 28°C, preventing users from setting temperatures as low as 16°C or 18°C. Union Power Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar, has confirmed these plans, indicating that preparations are underway to standardize AC temperatures nationwide.
Why Change AC Temperature Regulations?
The high demand for ACs during summer months significantly contributes to India's overall electricity consumption. The common practice of setting ACs to 16°C or 18°C leads to unnecessary energy waste and puts considerable strain on the power grid.
The new policy aims to establish a standard temperature range for AC usage, promoting uniformity and reducing excessive electricity consumption.
What Will the New Temperature Regulation Be?
According to the Ministry of Power, ACs will only be operable between 20°C and 28°C. Setting the temperature below or above this range will be prohibited. This means that setting an AC to 16°C or 18°C, as is currently common, will no longer be possible.
These regulations will apply to both residential and commercial sectors to control electricity consumption in both areas.
When Will the New Rule Be Implemented?
The government plans to implement this regulation soon. While no official date has been set, a phased implementation is anticipated. Initially, the new standard will be mandatory for new AC models, with gradual updates for older models.
Manufacturers will need to incorporate software or hardware controls to ensure compliance.
What Does the Data Say?
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) suggests that setting ACs to 24-25°C could significantly reduce electricity consumption.
- Increasing the temperature from 20°C to 24°C could save up to 24% on electricity.
- Each 1°C increase in temperature saves approximately 6% on electricity.
- If half of India's AC users comply, the annual savings could reach 10 billion units of electricity.
- This would translate to approximately ₹5,000 crore (50 billion rupees) in cost savings.
- It would also lead to a reduction of approximately 8.2 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
This change would contribute significantly to India's carbon neutrality goals.
What Changes for Users?
Users currently accustomed to setting their ACs to 16°C or 18°C will need to adapt. After the regulation is implemented:
- ACs will not cool below 20°C.
- Temperatures above 28°C will also not be selectable.
This will not only reduce electricity bills but also potentially improve health. Experts suggest prolonged exposure to very low temperatures from ACs can lead to respiratory, joint, and skin problems.
Public Feedback
Prior to these changes, the government conducted a public consultation survey on the mygov.in platform, gathering user preferences regarding AC temperature settings. This survey, open until March 25, 2025, aimed to understand public comfort levels and electricity consumption habits to inform policy decisions.
Impact on Technology Companies
This new regulation will require AC manufacturers to modify their models and firmware. They must produce AC units with a temperature lock feature, preventing users from setting temperatures outside the prescribed range.
This change also signals a move towards green technology. Companies can leverage this opportunity to promote smart features and IoT-based cooling solutions.
This new regulation controlling air conditioner temperatures represents a significant step towards addressing India's energy challenges, while also contributing to environmental protection and reducing carbon emissions. As India progresses towards smart energy solutions, such regulations become increasingly vital for improving quality of life and ensuring economic stability.
