Latest news with #BureauofEnergyEfficiency
The Hindu
a day ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Letters to The Editor — June 20, 2025
Trump's claims United States President Donald Trump's repeated claims over Operation Sindoor are a clear indication that Mr. Trump is unsure of himself (Page 1, 'India will never accept a mediation: PM to Trump', June 29). The American President's claims are only a ploy to assume importance and proclaim that he is very influential in shaping world events. C.G. Kuriakose, Kothamangalam, Kerala The ideal setting We need to thank the central government for implementing a new rule standardising air-conditioner temperature between 20° C and 28° C. When air conditioners are set at unnecessarily low temperatures, they work harder, drawing more power, leading to higher bills and faster wear and tear. According to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), every 1° C increase in an air-conditioner set point can cut energy consumption by up to 6%. A modest adjustment in set points may seem inconsequential in the face of India's vast cooling challenge. Yet, when 'multiplied across millions of units in households and offices nationwide, it signals a quiet revolution — one that can help secure a cooler, greener, and more sustainable future for all. The government's move reflects the need to optimise our response in ways that are technically sound and socially just'. R. Sivakumar, Chennai Paddy procurement I am writing this letter to highlight the poor state of the paddy procurement management system in Bargarh district of Odisha. Farmers are facing numerous difficulties due to delays in procurement, the lack of transparency, and inadequate support from the authorities concerned. The situation is causing significant hardship to the farming community. Timely procurement is crucial for our livelihood, but the system is not running smoothly, resulting in financial losses and distress among farmers. Mukesh Kumar Sahu, Bijepur, Bargarh, Odisha
Mint
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Mint
Govt discusses roadmap to implement stricter emission norms for four-wheelers
New Delhi: Several Indian ministries on Tuesday discussed the roadmap for implementing the proposed Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) III norms, set to take effect from 2032. The Union ministries of power, road transport, heavy industries, and petroleum met to strengthen the regulatory framework and reduce carbon emissions of four-wheeler vehicles, Union power minister Manohar Lal said on social media platform X. In June last year, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) rolled out the draft norms which would come into effect from 2032. BEE proposed stringent targets to cut automotive emissions, while emphasizing battery electric vehicles as key to its clean mobility drive. India's Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms are regulations aimed at improving the fuel economy of four-wheelers by limiting the average carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of an automaker's entire fleet of vehicles sold in a given financial year. They are a critical component of the government's efforts to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, curb air pollution, and meet its climate goals. Indicating an intent to support low- and zero-emission technologies, BEE has also proposed incentives for carmakers to produce more battery EVs to avail higher fuel efficiency credits, even as EV sales volumes are stagnating. BEE has proposed 91.7 gm CO2 per km and 70 gm CO2/km in CAFE 3 and CAFE 4, respectively at WLTP (world harmonised light vehicles testing procedure). The current, operational CAFE-II norms came into effect in 2022. These norms are relevant for petrol, diesel, CNG (compressed natural gas), LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), hybrid and electric passenger vehicles. Vehicles covered under these norms include those having up to nine seats including the driver's seat and a gross vehicle weight not exceeding 3,500 kg. Commercial vehicles with gross weight of 12 tonne or more are covered under separate fuel efficiency norms that were finalized in August 2017. Under the current CAFE-II norms, the cap on emission by passenger vehicles was pegged at 113 gm CO2 per km. It was brought down from 130 gm CO2 per km under CAFE-I norms, which had come into effect in 2017.
Indian Express
12-06-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Government's plan to cap AC temperature between 20°C to 28°C gets a nod from health experts
Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's proposal to cap air conditioner (AC) temperatures such that they can't be set below 20 degrees Celsius and above 28 degrees Celsius may be met with equal heat and amusement from netizens, but experts urge that regulating AC temperatures can offer significant benefits for both personal health and the environment. Calling it a one-of-a-kind experiment, Khattar on Tuesday stated that a new provision is being implemented to regulate air conditioning standards. 'The temperature standardisation for ACs will be set between 20°C and 28°C,' Khattar said. Reacting to the news, Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, said that from a health perspective, it can be a good idea. 'Such capping will prevent sudden temperature shocks when moving between hot outdoor environments and extremely cold indoor spaces, reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses, joint pain, extreme cold, and even dehydration,' said Dr Agarwal. Dr Narander Singla, lead consultant, internal medicine, CK Birla Hospital®, Delhi, concurred and shared that maintaining a moderate indoor temperature helps reduce the sharp contrast between outdoor and indoor air, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory issues such as asthma. Experts point out that the reduced risk of dehydration helps prevent symptoms like headaches and fatigue. 'Furthermore, a temperature range between 24–27°C (75–81°F) is known to support better sleep quality, contributing to overall well-being,' added Dr Singla. If the government's move is approved, it could change how Indians use their ACs at home and in public spaces like hotels and cars. From an environmental perspective, setting the AC to a slightly higher temperature can substantially reduce energy consumption. This is a step toward sustainable energy use, especially during peak summer months when power grids are overloaded, said Dr Agarwal. Experts urge this because it not only lowers electricity bills but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, playing a vital role in the fight against climate change. 'By consuming less energy, we also reduce our carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future,' said Dr Singla. He echoed the Bureau of Energy Efficiency's stance that raising the AC temperature by even one degree can reduce power consumption by six percent. Thus, such an increase could lead to reduced electricity bills for citizens. It is also said that setting the thermostat to around 25.5°C (78°F) during summer strikes a good balance between comfort and energy efficiency. 'Even a small adjustment of just 1–2 degrees can make a noticeable difference in energy use and health outcomes. Making this simple change is a step toward a healthier lifestyle and a more sustainable planet,' said Dr Singla. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Hans India
12-06-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Soon, you can't keep your AC temp below 20°C!
New Delhi: India will soon require all new air conditioners to operate between 20°C and 28°C, a move Power Minister Manohar Lal says could save consumers Rs 18,000–20,000 crore in three years. Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced that the government is preparing to bring in a fixed temperature range for ACs. The Centre's new rule will apply to all air conditioners, whether used at home or in workplaces. Many countries have already brought in similar limits, either through official orders or public guidelines, especially in offices and public spaces where power use is high. What is the new plan? At a press briefing held in New Delhi, the Union Minister said, 'Regarding air conditioning standards, a new provision is being implemented soon. The temperature standardisation for ACs will be set between 20°C to 28°C, meaning we won't be able to cool below 20°C or warm above 28°C.' 'This is a first-of-its-kind experiment, aiming to standardise temperature settings,' he added. At present, people usually set their air conditioners between 20°C and 22°C. However, the ideal comfort level, according to standard guidelines, is between 24°C and 26°C. The plan will be rolled out shortly, with checks in place to see how well it works. The aim is to encourage consistent use of ACs and cut down the high electricity usage caused by extremely low cooling settings. The Centre's order will fix the temperature range for all air conditioners, whether at home or in businesses. This means that once the rule takes effect, users would not be able to drop the cooling below 20°C or raise the heating past 28°C. Right now, many ACs sold in the market allow temperatures as low as 16°C or 18°C and heating options that go up to 30°C. Under the new rule, manufacturers will have to either update the software or change how the devices are programmed to follow the 20°C–28°C limit. While the government has said the change will be watched closely, details on how it will be enforced across different sectors are yet to be shared. Why did govt take this step? This move is meant to manage how energy is used in homes and offices, especially as India faces growing electricity demand and more frequent, severe heat waves. Khattar called it a 'bold step' to tackle the habit of using air conditioners at very low temperatures, which leads to a lot of power being used. The numbers behind the decision are strong. Even a one-degree rise in AC temperature can lower energy use by about 6%. If the country sets the minimum temperature at 20°C, officials believe it could save up to 3 gigawatts of peak demand, Pankaj Agarwal, the ministry's top official, said. This change also fits into a wider national push for using energy in a more balanced way. As more people from the middle class buy air conditioners and cities grow, electricity use is rising sharply during the summer months. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) said most people in India tend to set their ACs at 20–21°C, lower than needed for basic comfort. This not only increases power bills but also leads to more pollution, as much of India's electricity still comes from coal-based plants. By setting a lower limit of 20°C for cooling and 28°C for heating, the government wants to make ACs more efficient, reduce the pressure on the electricity grid, lower emissions, and shift how people think about using cooling systems. The aim is not just to change how machines work, but to change how people use them, encouraging smarter, more responsible choices. A study from the University of California, Berkeley, found that tougher energy-saving rules for ACs could help India avoid 60 gigawatts of extra electricity demand by 2035. This could also save up to 7.5 trillion rupees ($88 billion) in the cost of building new power plants and grid systems. How will it impact consumers? The Bureau of Energy Efficiency has been pushing for better air conditioning habits for years. Their data shows that raising the AC temperature by just one degree can cut power use by around 6%. That means going from 20°C to 24°C could save up to 24% in energy use. Over the course of one summer, this could lead to much lower electricity bills and take a big load off the power grid. Many people may not realise that cooling a room to 16°C in a hot, humid country like India is unnecessary, and not great for your health. Experts say the best temperature for comfort indoors is between 24°C and 26°C, especially when you account for humidity, fresh air, and regular indoor clothing. These new rules, then, match closely with actual comfort levels. They do not force people to feel too warm; they just push for more sensible, healthier use of air conditioners.
The Print
11-06-2025
- Politics
- The Print
Modi govt faces heat over ‘one nation, one AC temperature' proposal
'One nation, one temperature' and other hashtags are gaining ground on social media. The timing of the announcement—it was made as Delhi reels under extreme heat—has also been criticised. It has pitted the 'greater good' of energy conservation against the consumer's right to choose. New Delhi: Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's proposal to regulate AC temperatures so that they don't go below 20 degrees celsius has been met with backlash by citizens worried that the government is interfering a little too much. 'Everyone has unique cooling needs—how can they enforce a one-size-fits-all rule? Those on higher floors often need lower temperatures; are they supposed to install multiple ACs just to stay comfortable?' one X user complained. Why is the government meddling in my choice to set my AC to 16°C? Everyone has unique cooling needs—how can they enforce a one-size-fits-all rule? Those on higher floors often need lower temperatures; are they supposed to install multiple ACs just to stay comfortable? — Arpit Marwah (@arpitmarwah93) June 10, 2025 New air conditioners in the Indian market will soon not go below 20℃, Khattar said Tuesday, referring to a 'new provision' which he said would be 'implemented soon'. He pitched it as a bid to bring energy efficiency in the $3 billion AC market in the country. 'The temperature should be between 20℃ to 28℃ for all ACs, according to these new regulations,' said Khattar in a press conference. 'I don't think any of us even use the AC at temperatures below 20℃,' he added. If the government has its way, 'temperature standardisation' norms will apply to new AC units for malls, homes and cars that are manufactured and sold after this proposal comes into effect. For the regulation to be implemented and communicated to manufacturers, it will take around three to four months, according to former government officials. Many citizens have raised concerns about what they see as the government infringing upon their choices as customers. Others argued that in the backdrop of rising temperatures, the government should be working to make ACs more accessible for consumers, rather than bringing in 'first-world' policies to the country. Ideally they should make ACs accessible to masses by reducing the GST. But, a third world country wants to bring the first world policies for some tokenism. — Sandesh Samant – संदेश सामंत (@sandesh_samant) June 10, 2025 'What next, cars that can't drive below twenty kph and above 60 kph,' remarked Supreme Court advocate Sanjay Hegde on X. What next, cars that can't drive below twenty kph and above 60 kph. — SANJAY HEGDE (@sanjayuvacha) June 11, 2025 However, industry officials and energy experts ThePrint spoke to say they believe that this change in regulation will be good for long-term energy efficiency, while also reducing the electricity bills of consumers. According to the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, even raising the AC temperature by 1℃ can reduce electricity consumption by 6 percent. Any increase in AC temperatures could therefore reflect in both reduced energy consumption and reduced electricity bills. Shalu Agrawal, director of programmes at the New Delhi-based think tank Centre for Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) sees this proposal as a great opportunity. 'Even a modest shift from 18°C to 20°C can cut AC energy use by 12 percent,' said Agrawal. 'If just 30 percent of new buyers (~5 million) adopt this change, it could save 1.4 billion units of electricity annually—enough to power 10–14 million homes for a month,' she added, quoting a 2020 CEEW study. Also Read: Sizzling heat, humidity & high power demand lead to spike in AC blasts and how you can avoid them How it will be implemented While the Union Ministry of Power has not yet released a document outlining how this regulation will be carried out and a timeline for the same, former government officials said implementation should not be too big a challenge. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency, the nodal body that handles the star-rating system for appliances, already has a compliance mechanism in place for ACs, fridges, and other devices that fail to comply with the government's energy efficiency standards. 'There's already an agency like the Bureau of Energy Efficiency in place, which regularly coordinates with AC manufacturers for their star-rating system,' said Alok Kumar, former secretary to the Government of India for the Ministry of Power. 'My guess is that this regulation will be routed through them too and shouldn't be too much trouble.' 'For manufacturers, it will be a small change in the software, to just reduce the limits of the temperatures from 18-30℃ to the new 20-28℃,' explained Ajay Mathur, former director-general of the Bureau of Energy Efficiency. 'The only issue will be the timeline of implementation and coordinating with both Indian and overseas manufacturers, but it shouldn't take more than a few months.' As for an impact on Indian consumers, experts are confident that there will be no price change in ACs after this new regulation. 'Compliance is expected to be easy because it is just tweaking the operating temperature range of the appliance,' said Shyamasis Das, a fellow at the New Delhi-based think tank Centre for Social and Economic Progress. 'This neither warrants technological improvement nor impacts the cost of manufacturing or sale,' he added. Even AC traders welcomed the government's proposal, citing how this will reduce wasteful energy consumption by consumers. 'People keep the AC at 16-17℃ because they can, not realising the impact it has on the energy usage. Even if you keep it at 20℃, the cooling will be the same, and it will be more sustainable,' said Rajeev Agrawal, an electronics trader in Daryaganj, Delhi. 'If people don't reduce wasteful energy consumption, the government should do it. It's a great move!' (Edited by Amrtansh Arora) Also Read: Voltas mascot Murthy never clicked. His broken Hindi isn't cute anymore
