Overview

• The government plans to mandate a 20°C–28°C operating range for new room air conditioners to curb surging electricity use.
• Officials estimate the thermostat cap could shave off up to 60 GW of peak power demand by 2035, avoiding roughly ₹7.5 trillion in grid and plant costs.
• Manufacturers say they can reprogram temperature presets in new units within two to three months of the rule’s implementation.
• The policy applies to standalone residential and small commercial ACs, exempting centralized systems in malls and corporate offices.
• While the measure aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s green energy agenda, experts warn that efficiency upgrades, building retrofits and renewable integration are also needed to meet rising cooling needs.