In a significant move towards promoting energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, the Government of India has implemented new regulations that restrict the minimum temperature setting of air conditioners (ACs) to 20 degrees Celsius. The initiative, rolled out under the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) and the Ministry of Power, is part of an ongoing national effort to conserve energy, reduce carbon emissions, and manage the rising demand for electricity during peak summer months.
According to the revised standards, all public and commercial buildings—such as offices, malls, airports, and hotels—must adhere to the minimum 20°C temperature setting for their air conditioning systems. The government has also recommended that households voluntarily adopt the same standard to collectively contribute to reducing the national energy load.
The directive is based on detailed research and consultations with experts, which highlighted that lowering AC temperatures beyond a certain point not only increases electricity usage but also leads to avoidable environmental stress. Studies show that each degree increase in AC temperature can result in energy savings of up to 6 percent.
A senior official from the Ministry of Power stated, “Maintaining indoor temperatures between 24°C and 26°C is not only energy-efficient but also comfortable for most individuals. However, due to prevailing habits and preferences, many people continue to use ACs at settings as low as 16°C to 18°C, which leads to excessive power usage.”
While the rule mandates a 20°C minimum for regulated sectors, there is no immediate penalty for domestic users. Instead, the government is focusing on awareness campaigns and encouraging behavioral change. Public sector undertakings and state electricity boards have been asked to support the initiative by providing guidance and incentives for energy-efficient practices.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported increasingly intense summer temperatures in recent years, which have driven up the demand for cooling solutions. As a result, electricity consumption from ACs, particularly in urban areas, has sharply increased. In cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, AC usage accounts for a significant portion of peak hour energy consumption.
Environmental experts have welcomed the move, citing its long-term benefits. “This regulation is a timely step in India's climate action journey. It can substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions if adopted widely,” said an energy policy researcher at The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI).
Manufacturers of ACs are also expected to align their product features with the new guidelines. Many companies are already offering default settings of 24°C and integrating features that encourage power-saving behavior.
In addition to temperature limits, the government is also pushing for star-rated energy-efficient appliances and better insulation in buildings to reduce dependency on artificial cooling systems.
This initiative reflects India’s broader commitment to international climate goals, including its promises under the Paris Agreement and the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). If successfully implemented, the new AC regulations could not only help balance electricity demand but also promote a healthier environment.
