The Hindu: Published on 13th June 2025:
Why in News:
The Union Ministry of Power has proposed restricting the operational temperature range of new air conditioners in India between 20°C to 28°C to promote energy efficiency and improve public health. This move is being revisited after similar discussions in 2018 and 2021.
Background:
In 2018 and 2021, the Ministry had consulted AC manufacturers to set the default AC temperature at 24°C, based on a Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) study.
A nationwide awareness campaign was also considered before enforcing such limits.
The current discussion has gained urgency due to increasing AC usage, high energy demand, and related health concerns.
Scientific Basis & Energy Perspective:
Every 1°C increase in AC temperature can save ~6% electricity.
If consumers shift from 18–21°C to 24°C, the country could save 20 billion units of electricity annually.
The vapor compression cycle used in ACs consumes most energy during compression, which intensifies at lower temperature settings.
Health Implications:
Temperatures below 18°C are linked with:
Increased blood pressure and risk of hypertension.
Greater risk of asthma, respiratory infections, and reduced lung function, especially in children and elderly.
Poor mental health — studies show people in cold homes have twice the risk of depression and anxiety.
WHO recommends 18°C as the minimum safe indoor temperature in colder climates.
Global Context:
As of 2022, over 2 billion ACs were in use worldwide.
In the Asia-Pacific, 43% of people still lack adequate cooling.
Agencies like the International Energy Agency (IEA) emphasize energy-efficient cooling as critical to sustainable development.
Comfort Standards:
According to ASHRAE-55 and ISO 7730:
The comfort range is around 20–24°C for a lightly clothed person at rest.
Core body temp ~37°C and mean skin temp should remain stable without sweating or shivering.
Special Cases: Sleep and Age-Specific Needs:
Studies find:
16–19°C is suitable for deep sleep in healthy adults.
Infants and elderly fare better around 19°C due to weaker thermoregulation.
Conclusion / The Way Forward:
The Ministry’s move to regulate AC temperature is based on:
Energy conservation, Public health protection, and Environmental sustainability.
It aims to strike a balance between comfort, cost-efficiency, and health.
A standardized range (20–28°C) could become a default regulation for future AC models after public consultations.
