Govt’s Shocking AC Rule Revealed! One Nation, One Temperature – Why 24°C Could Soon Be Mandatory Across India

New Delhi, India, June 11, 2025 – India is set to launch a bold “One Nation, One AC Temperature” policy, aiming to set all air conditioners to a default of 24°C. The move seeks to curb soaring energy use and cut carbon emissions as cooling demand skyrockets. Here’s why it’s happening and what it means for the country.

Why 24°C Makes Sense

Science backs the choice:

• The 23–25°C range offers comfort while saving energy, matching global standards for indoor cooling.
• Raising AC settings by 1°C can save 6% electricity, easing pressure on power grids.
• Households could save thousands of rupees yearly on bills, with nationwide savings reaching ₹5,000 crore.

This temperature strikes a balance for all.

#WATCH | Delhi: Union Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar says, "Regarding air conditioning standards, a new provision is being implemented soon. The temperature standardization for ACs will be set between 20°C to 28°C, meaning we won't be able to cool below… pic.twitter.com/Iwnaa4ZPKN

— ANI (@ANI) June 10, 2025

How the Plan Will Roll Out

The policy has clear steps:

• New ACs will come preset at 24°C, with manufacturers required to comply by mid-2026.
• Government offices, malls, and metro stations will adopt 24°C settings starting late 2025.
• Energy-efficient ACs that meet the rule will earn extra points in star ratings.

The changes aim to make saving energy automatic.

Why India Needs This Now

The reasons are urgent:

• ACs gobble up 40% of city electricity in summer, straining India’s power supply.
• The plan supports India’s goal to cut millions of tons of CO2 emissions by 2030, fighting climate change.
• Stable indoor temperatures reduce health risks from moving between hot outdoors and chilly rooms.

These drivers push India toward sustainability.

What People Are Saying

Reactions are mixed:

• An energy expert said, “This ends office thermostat battles in cities like Delhi.”
• The Power Ministry noted, “It could save enough power to light up a small state.”
• Coastal residents asked, “Will 24°C work in humid places like Mumbai?”
• Some AC makers argued, “Users should have freedom to choose.”

The debate is heating up online and off.

Lessons from Around the World

Other countries show the way:

• Japan’s Cool Biz program sets offices at 28°C, saving energy since 2005.
• Singapore guides public buildings to 25°C, balancing comfort and efficiency.
• Europe uses smart thermostats to control energy use in homes and offices.

India’s plan builds on these successes.

Challenges and Concerns

Not everyone’s on board:

• Humid regions like Kerala worry 24°C won’t cool enough, pushing for flexibility.
• Manufacturers fear higher costs to redesign ACs, which could raise prices.
• Enforcement is tricky, with penalties planned for those who dodge the rules.

These hurdles test the policy’s reach.

What’s Next for Cooling India

The timeline is taking shape:

• A draft rule is expected by August 2025, open for public feedback.
• Compliant ACs could hit stores by summer 2026, reshaping the market.
• Fines under energy laws will target non-compliant buildings and sellers.

India’s cooling future starts now.