Maintain ACs at 24°C To Save 20 Bn Units Worth Rs 10K Cr Annually: BEE

Vijayawada: With mercury rising with the onset of an early summer, Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), a statutory body under the Ministry of Power, has urged citizens and commercial establishments in particular to set air-conditioners to 24° C for optimal comfort and energy conservation.

This recommendation, part of BEE’s broader energy efficiency drive, is aimed at reducing unnecessary energy consumption while ensuring indoor comfort. Setting the AC at 24°C not only ensures significant electricity savings but also contributes to environmental sustainability and public health.

According to BEE, it estimates increasing the temperature setting by just one degree Celsius can save up to six per cent in electricity consumption. Maintaining ACs at 24°C can collectively result in energy savings of up to 20 billion units annually - translating into financial savings of nearly Rs 10,000 crore. Setting AC at 24°C can also reduce electricity consumption by up to 24 per cent compared to a 20°C setting, BEE said in a statement on Sunday.

Adjusting AC settings based on time of day or occupancy can further reduce power consumption. BEE has also emphasised the importance of this initiative in commercial spaces such as hotels, airports, shopping malls, office complexes, and government buildings. It has urged air-conditioner manufacturers to set 24°C as the default setting for all new AC units. If even 50 per cent of consumers adopt this practice, the country could save around 10 billion units of electricity and cut down approximately 8.2 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. It is worth noting that a single air-conditioner running 8–10 hours a day can emit nearly 10 kg of CO₂ daily - highlighting the need for proactive and responsible energy use to combat climate

change, Milind Deore, Secretary, BEE explained. He advised all key State Designated Agencies (SDAs) and Southern SDAs in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana and other States to take up special campaigns for creating wide range awareness on maintaining AC at 24°C to benefit the consumers.

According to BEE, lower energy use leads to reduced electricity bills and reduced power usage results in a smaller carbon footprint. The statement, issued in public interest, said 24°C is within the recommended indoor comfort range for most people.