Government to make 24 degrees celsius as default setting for air conditioners

The Union Ministry of Power is considering making 24 degrees celsius as mandatory default setting and labeling of air conditioners within few months. This has been planned after six months campaign was launched to promote energy efficiency in the area of air-conditioning.

Key Facts

The campaign was launched on voluntary basis to increase awareness and encourage consumers to adopt the guidelines. It will result in substantial energy savings and also reduce greenhouse gas emission. Every one degree increase in temperature of air-conditioner results in saving of 6% of electricity consumed.
After 4-6 months of awareness campaign, followed by survey to gather public feedback, Ministry of Power will consider proposal of making labeling of optimum temperatures in ACs mandatory. Labeling of optimum temperature setting of air conditioners by manufacturers will benefit of consumers, both from the financial and health point of view.  It will also result in savings of 20 billion units of electricity per year.

Scientific reasons

The normal human body temperature is approximately 36-37 degree Celsius. Lower temperature around 18-21 degree Celsius controlled by air conditioners especially in large number of commercial establishments such hotels and offices is not only uncomfortable but is also unhealthy. Setting lower temperature in the range of 18-21 degree Celsius compels people to wear warm clothing resulting in wastage of energy.

Month: Current Affairs - June, 2018