Context:
Amidst a prolonged and intense heatwave, the Union Government has proposed standardising AC temperatures between 20°C and 28°C.
The move is part of a broader energy efficiency policy, aiming to manage India’s soaring electricity demand.
Key Objectives of the Policy:
Promote Energy Efficiency: Reducing unnecessary energy consumption during peak hours.
Manage Power Demand: ACs account for nearly 20% of India’s total electricity consumption.
Combat Climate Change: By reducing energy use, associated greenhouse gas emissions also decline.
Avoid Infrastructure Costs: Estimated savings of 60 GW of peak electricity demand by 2035, reducing the need for costly new power infrastructure.
Significance:
Cost Savings: Every 1°C increase in thermostat temperature can reduce energy usage by ~6%.
Public Health: While aiming for sustainability, it recognises the growing need for cooling as a basic necessity during extreme heat events.
Long-term Benefits: Helps align with India’s goals under the Paris Climate Agreement and National Energy Efficiency Plan.
Challenges:
Public Compliance: Ensuring behavioural change in households and businesses may be difficult.
Technological Adjustments: Existing AC units may require recalibration or upgrades.
Heat Vulnerability: A uniform range may not accommodate regional and individual comfort variations, especially in extreme heat zones.
Way Forward:
Awareness Campaigns: Promote benefits of optimal AC settings.
Incentivise Efficient Cooling: Encourage adoption of energy-efficient ACs (e.g., 5-star rated units).
Smart Regulations: Allow flexibility for vulnerable regions while maintaining the broader efficiency goal.
Invest in Passive Cooling: Promote architecture and design solutions that reduce indoor heat buildup.
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