The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has announced an extension of the deadline for energy efficiency standards for air conditioners sold in India. It has also introduced enhanced standards for the upcoming years. This notification was issued on July 18, 2024.
It may be recalled that August 8, 2017 the government had mandated a progressive increase in minimum and maximum energy efficiency ratios for air conditioners.
These standards prescribe the Indian Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios for all 5 star levels of air conditions. It thereby prescribes the minimum and maximum ratios for each of the star levels separately for unitary and split type air conditioners. Hence, the air conditioners manufactured or commercially purchased or sold during the specified time-period must comply with the corresponding energy efficiency ratios.
The original deadline for compliance with the most stringent standards was implemented in phases and set for December 31, 2024.
Extension Details
The revised deadline for compliance with these standards has been extended to December 31, 2025. This extension applies to both unitary and split type air conditioners.
New Standards for 2026-2028
The notification also introduces new, even stricter standards for air conditioners to be implemented from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028. These new standards will also be applicable for both unitary and split type air conditioners.
The extension provides manufacturers with additional time to adapt their production processes to meet the more stringent efficiency requirements.
The implementation of stricter standards in the future is expected to reduce energy consumption in India, promote the adoption of more energy-efficient air conditioners by consumers and contribute to India’s overall energy security goals.
