India sets mandatory temperature limits for air conditioners to boost energy efficiency

.

New AC temperature rule: What does it means for Indian consumers

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday announced that air conditioners across India will soon be required strictly within a temperature range of 20° Celsius and 28°C. The move aims to curb electricity consumption and promote sustainable cooling practices.

“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," Manohar Lal Khattar said.

 What does the new rule means

Under the new regulation, all residential and commercial air conditioners will be restricted to operate only within the 20°C–28°C temperature range. Current models, which often allow cooling as low as 16°C and heating up to 30°C, will need software updates or manufacturing modifications to comply.

Meanwhile, the govt said that the directive will be mandatory, not advisory, unlike past energy-efficiency guidelines, such as the Bureau of Energy Efficiency's 2018 recommendation to set ACs at 24°C.

Why it matters

India’s electricity demand is soaring, especially during summer months, due to the increasing use of air conditioners. Most Indians habitually set ACs at 20–21°C, which significantly raises energy consumption and carbon emissions, mainly from coal-powered plants.

By setting temperature limits, the government aims to lower electricity bills, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and drive a behavioural shift in energy use.

According to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, each 1°C increase in AC temperature can cut power consumption by approximately 6%. Moving from 20°C to 24°C could slash usage by up to 24%.

Moreover, experts say that indoor comfort can be effectively maintained between 24°C and 26°C, making extremely low cooling unnecessary and even unhealthy.

How India compares globally

India joins a growing list of countries implementing cooling regulations. Japan advises 28°C for summer office settings, while Spain enforces a minimum of 27°C in public buildings. China and Italy have similar rules, particularly for government spaces. However, India’s rule goes further by covering residential and commercial sectors alike.

Australia, the U.S., and Belgium focus more on energy efficiency and recommended settings rather than enforceable temperature limits, making India’s approach one of the most comprehensive globally.