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The Indian government is proposing a new regulation that will limit the operating temperature range of air conditioners (ACs) to between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius. Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced this initiative, stating its primary goal is to manage energy consumption in homes and offices, particularly as India faces increasing electricity demand and more frequent and intense heat waves. This move aims to standardize temperature settings and discourage the widespread practice of setting ACs to very low temperatures, which significantly increases power usage. The new rule will apply to all air conditioners, whether used in residential or commercial settings, meaning that once implemented, users will not be able to set the cooling temperature below 20°C or the heating temperature above 28°C. Currently, many AC units available in the market allow users to set temperatures as low as 16°C or 18°C and heating options that exceed 28°C, sometimes reaching up to 30°C. To comply with the new regulation, manufacturers will likely need to update the software or reprogram their devices to adhere to the specified temperature limits. While the government has indicated that the change will be closely monitored, the specifics of how it will be enforced across various sectors are still being developed. The rationale behind this policy is rooted in the need to manage India's growing energy demands, especially during the summer months when AC usage peaks. Even a small increase in AC temperature can lead to substantial energy savings. According to officials, raising the AC temperature by just one degree Celsius can reduce energy consumption by approximately 6%. If the minimum temperature is set at 20°C, it is estimated that India could save up to 3 gigawatts of peak demand. This initiative aligns with a broader national effort to promote more balanced and sustainable energy usage, as the increasing number of middle-class households purchasing air conditioners and the rapid growth of cities have led to a sharp rise in electricity consumption during the summer. Operating ACs at extremely low temperatures places a significant strain on the power supply system. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has observed that many people in India tend to set their ACs at 20–21°C, which is lower than the level needed for basic comfort. This not only increases electricity bills but also contributes to higher pollution levels, as a significant portion of India's electricity is still generated from coal-based power plants. By establishing a lower limit of 20°C for cooling and 28°C for heating, the government aims to improve the efficiency of ACs, alleviate pressure on the electricity grid, reduce emissions, and foster a more responsible and energy-conscious approach to cooling systems. The objective is not just to modify the technical aspects of the machines but also to influence consumer behavior, encouraging smarter and more sustainable choices. A study conducted by the University of California, Berkeley, highlighted that implementing stricter energy-saving regulations for ACs could help India avoid an additional 60 gigawatts of electricity demand by 2035, resulting in savings of up to 7.5 trillion rupees ($88 billion) in the cost of constructing new power plants and grid infrastructure. The BEE has been advocating for better air conditioning practices for several years. Their data shows that increasing the AC temperature by just one degree can reduce power consumption by approximately 6%. Therefore, shifting from 20°C to 24°C could potentially save up to 24% in energy usage. Over the course of a single summer, this could lead to significantly lower electricity bills and a substantial reduction in the load on the power grid. Many consumers may not realize that cooling a room to 16°C in a hot and humid climate like India is not only unnecessary but also detrimental to their health. Experts recommend that the ideal indoor temperature for comfort is between 24°C and 26°C, taking into account factors such as humidity, ventilation, and appropriate indoor clothing. The proposed regulations align closely with these recommended comfort levels, aiming to promote more sensible and healthier use of air conditioners without forcing people to feel uncomfortably warm.
Beyond the energy and climate concerns, health experts emphasize that this initiative could also offer real benefits to the body, particularly during the intense summer months when reliance on air conditioners is high. Dr. Suranjit Chatterjee, a senior consultant in Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, noted that setting air conditioners at excessively low temperatures can disrupt the body's natural ability to regulate heat. According to Dr. Chatterjee, maintaining the indoor temperature at a very cold level and then suddenly stepping outside into temperatures of 44 or 45 degrees Celsius can cause a temperature shock to the body. This transition can trigger colds, fatigue, or even put stress on internal organs. While the government’s guideline sets the minimum setting at 20°C, Dr. Chatterjee suggests that a slightly higher temperature, between 22°C and 24°C, may be more suitable for most people. India’s plan to standardize air conditioner settings between 20°C and 28°C is part of a global trend where many countries are attempting to regulate indoor cooling to conserve energy and reduce emissions. Some countries have formalized these regulations, while others treat them as strong recommendations. Italy, for example, has set a minimum cooling temperature of 25°C in public buildings such as schools and post offices. This measure was implemented to reduce energy consumption and emissions in accordance with EU climate objectives. In Japan, the Ministry of Environment advises setting air conditioners to 28°C during the summer, particularly in workplaces. Although this is not a legally binding rule, it is supported by public awareness campaigns and is widely accepted in corporate environments. In the United States, there is no specific federal regulation, but the Energy Star program recommends maintaining air conditioners at 25.5°C (78°F) when people are present. These guidelines are supported by incentives and campaigns led by utility companies. China has mandated that the cooling temperature in government offices should be no lower than 26°C during the summer. Non-compliance can result in penalties, at least in public buildings. Spain implemented a more stringent approach in 2022, passing a law that requires public places, offices, and commercial buildings to maintain cooling at a minimum of 27°C. This was part of a broader initiative to reduce energy consumption and address rising energy costs. Australia does not impose limits on thermostat settings but instead focuses on the energy efficiency of AC units. Through its Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS), only devices that meet energy-saving criteria can be sold. Although offices and state guidelines often suggest maintaining temperatures between 22°C and 24°C, these are not legally enforced. In Belgium, public buildings are legally required to maintain cooling at a minimum of 27°C in the summer and heating capped at 19°C in the winter. This is part of a national strategy to promote more responsible energy consumption.
Compared to these examples, India’s proposed range of 20°C to 28°C offers a broader scope for adjustment. While countries like Spain and China focus primarily on public spaces, India’s rule is intended to apply across homes, businesses, and industries. In doing so, India is not only aligning with global trends but also aiming to take a more comprehensive approach by establishing a uniform rule that encompasses all users and promotes a long-term shift in how cooling is utilized. The implementation of this regulation is expected to have a significant impact on both energy consumption and public health. By encouraging consumers to set their ACs at more moderate temperatures, the government hopes to reduce the strain on the electricity grid, lower carbon emissions, and improve overall energy efficiency. The potential energy savings are substantial, with estimates suggesting that the country could save up to 3 gigawatts of peak demand by setting the minimum temperature at 20°C. In addition to the environmental benefits, the regulation is also expected to have positive effects on public health. Health experts have noted that setting ACs at excessively low temperatures can disrupt the body's natural ability to regulate heat and increase the risk of colds, fatigue, and other health problems. By promoting more moderate indoor temperatures, the government hopes to create a healthier and more comfortable environment for people during the hot summer months. The success of this initiative will depend on effective enforcement and public awareness campaigns. The government will need to develop clear guidelines for manufacturers and consumers to ensure compliance with the new regulation. Public awareness campaigns will be essential to educate people about the benefits of setting ACs at more moderate temperatures and to encourage them to adopt more energy-efficient cooling practices. The proposed regulation on air conditioner temperatures is a significant step towards promoting energy efficiency and sustainability in India. By setting a uniform rule that encompasses all users, the government hopes to reduce the strain on the electricity grid, lower carbon emissions, and improve public health. The success of this initiative will require effective enforcement and public awareness campaigns, but the potential benefits are substantial. As India continues to grapple with increasing energy demands and more frequent and intense heat waves, this regulation could play a crucial role in creating a more sustainable and resilient future.
Source: Why you might not to able to lower your AC temperatures below 20°C in India