India Considers New Air Conditioner Regulations to Save Energy
BENGALURU, India — In an effort to conserve energy, the Indian government is moving forward with a proposal to limit the temperature settings on new air conditioners. The power minister recently suggested that these appliances should be set no lower than 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit).
With a population exceeding 1.4 billion, India is expected to see significant energy savings from this adjustment. Each year, approximately 10 to 15 million air conditioners are purchased, driven by rising incomes and urbanization amid sweltering summer temperatures.
Currently, air conditioners can be set as low as 17 degrees Celsius (62 degrees Fahrenheit). Government officials estimate that increasing the temperature setting by just one degree can reduce energy consumption by about 6%.
Mixed Reactions from the Public
Reactions to the proposed change have been varied. Some energy experts view it as a constructive move. Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar mentioned that the rule would be implemented soon, although he did not specify when.
Residents in India’s hot urban areas have expressed both support and concern. Vikram Kannan, a teacher living in Chennai, acknowledged the need for energy conservation but worried about the practical implications for families living in extreme heat. “It’s important to save energy,” he said, “but in places like Chennai, it can be unbearable without proper cooling.”
Air conditioning has become a major source of electricity consumption in India. Estimates suggest that it could account for up to 25% of peak demand during the hottest times of the year, contributing to an urgent need for energy management.
The Need for Better Efficiency
Experts warn that if substantial changes are not made, India may face power shortages in the near future. High demand for electricity is a major factor behind India’s status as one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases. While there is a growing movement toward renewable energy, much of India’s power still comes from fossil fuels like coal.
Nikit Abhyankar, an energy researcher, points out that cities like Delhi are now experiencing dual peaks in electricity use, largely driven by air conditioning. Implementing efficiency standards for air conditioning units could lead to meaningful changes, they argue.
Steps Toward Energy Conservation
The proposal for air conditioner setting limits is part of a broader range of government initiatives aimed at energy conservation. These measures include enforcing higher temperature settings in government offices and launching public awareness campaigns about energy use.
Some citizens support the proposed temperature restrictions. Sunil Kumar, a small vehicle driver from East Delhi, believes that the changes could help lower bills and reduce fire hazards. “People have lived without air conditioners before,” he remarked. “We can adapt.”
On the other hand, businessperson Surjeet Singh expressed concern that curtailing air conditioner capabilities might be unnecessary, suggesting alternatives such as planting trees to combat urban heat.
Experts like Abhyankar advocate for increasing energy efficiency standards for air conditioners, indicating that many models currently sold in India would not meet standards in more advanced markets. More efficient designs could help reduce energy consumption significantly.
In conclusion, while the new regulation on air conditioner temperature settings may be a small step towards better energy management, experts believe that a comprehensive strategy focused on energy efficiency will be crucial as India grapples with rising temperatures and increasing demand for power.
