Power minister asks central govt depts to run ACs at 24 degrees celsius to save energy

In an effort to save energy consumption in India, Power Minister R K Singh has asked central government offices and PSUs to run their air conditioners (ACs) at a temperature of 24-25 degrees Celsius.

Using ACs at an standard temperature of 24-25 degrees Celsius can reduced electricity bills significantly as an increase of temperature of the appliance by just one degree celsius saves 6 per cent of electricity usage for consumers, the minister said.

All the buildings of public sector undertakings (PSUs) and attached and subordinated organisations under the central government have been asked to use their ACs at 24-25 degrees Celsius.

In a letter to them, the minister said, "Typically, room temperature is set between 20-21 degree Celsius, whereas as per the comfort chart, the thermostat should be set between 24-25 degrees Celsius with due consideration parameters like humidity, air flow etc."