India is preparing to implement a new regulation that will limit air conditioners from cooling below 20°C and heating above 28°C, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced. The measure is aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and curbing excessive electricity usage as part of the government’s broader sustainability drive.
According to a media report, “A new provision is being implemented soon regarding air conditioning standards. The temperature standardisation for ACs will be set between 20°C to 28°C, which means we will not be able to cool below 20°C or heat above 28°C,” said Khattar.
“We have decided the minimum temperature of ACs will be fixed at 20 degrees Celsius and maximum at 28 degrees Celsius,” he added.
This move comes amid an orange alert issued by the India Meteorological Department for Delhi, warning of an intense heatwave over the next two days. Residents are already struggling with extreme conditions, as the ‘feels-like’ temperature in parts of the capital has reportedly touched nearly 50 degrees Celsius.
What does it mean for AC users?
Once these changes come into effect, air conditioners across India will have a restricted operating range. ACs that currently cool to as low as 16°C or 18°C will no longer be able to do so. The minimum cooling setting will be fixed at 20°C, and heating will be capped at 28°C.
This is expected to affect both household and commercial air conditioner use, with authorities set to monitor implementation and impact.
Why the government is making this change?
India faces heavy power demand during peak summer months. By setting a temperature cap on ACs, the government aims to reduce the burden on the national power grid and encourage responsible energy use.
Many users often set their ACs to very low temperatures, below 20°C, which leads to unnecessary power consumption. The new rule hopes to address this pattern.
How does raising the AC temperature help save electricity?
According to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), setting the AC temperature a few degrees higher can make a big difference. Most ACs in India are set between 20–21°C, but the ideal comfort range is considered to be 24–25°C.
BEE says increasing the temperature setting from 20°C to 24°C can result in up to 24% electricity savings. Each 1°C increase can help save about 6% in power consumption.