MoP proposes change in default setting of ACs

The MoP has proposed changing the mandatory default setting for air conditioners (AC) to 24 ºC, from the current minimum setting of 18 ºC. The ministry has asked AC manufacturers to regulate default settings of the units in order to promote power efficiency in air conditioning. The proposed move is following a study carried out by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) according to which a 1 ºC increase in AC temperature can save about 6 per cent of electricity. The BEE has issued an advisory to consumers in commercial buildings to maintain the internal temperature in the range of 24-25 ºC. These guidelines are currently applicable to large commercial premises such as airports, hotels, government buildings, shopping malls, offices, etc.