tuberbuddy.com

Chennai’s Cool Revolution: The 24°C AC Campaign You Need to Know About

24 degree AC campaign

A silent yet powerful revolution is underway as Chennai sizzles under soaring summer temperatures. The city is adopting smarter and greener cooling habits, thanks to a nationwide initiative encouraging citizens to set their air conditioners at 24 degrees Celsius. This energy-saving move transforms how Chennaiites beat the heat, without burning a hole in their pocket or harming the planet.

 Let’s explore how this campaign started, who’s behind it, and why setting your AC to 24°C makes so much sense.

 

What is the 24°C AC Campaign?

Launched by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) under the Ministry of Power, Government of India, the campaign aims to raise awareness about energy conservation through smart air conditioning practices. One key recommendation: Set air conditioners to a default temperature of 24°C.

This initiative isn’t just about comfort—it’s about reducing power consumption, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and extending the lifespan of air conditioning units.

Why 24°C? The Science Behind the Temperature

Many people believe that cooler AC settings, like 18°C or 20°C, offer better relief. However, studies show that 24°C is the optimal indoor temperature for comfort and energy efficiency.

Here’s why:

  • Every 1°C increase in AC temperature setting can save up to 6% of electricity.
  • The human body is comfortable around 24°C–26°C, especially with proper airflow.
  • Maintaining a moderate AC temperature reduces strain on compressors, resulting in longer equipment life and fewer repairs.

In a city like Chennai, where summer temperatures often cross 40°C, setting your AC to 24°C instead of 20°C can save hundreds of rupees each month.

Who’s Leading the Campaign in Chennai?

While the national initiative was introduced by BEE, in Chennai, the movement is being driven by a combination of government bodies, civic organizations, and environmental groups:

  • Tamil Nadu Energy Development Agency (TEDA): Works with local utilities and government offices to implement energy-saving practices.
  • Greater Chennai Corporation: Partners with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) to conduct awareness programs in housing societies.
  • Citizen Consumer and Civic Action Group (CAG): A Chennai-based NGO is conducting energy audits and educating consumers on sustainable practices.
  • TANGEDCO (Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation): Has supported awareness drives related to energy billing and conservation.

Media and Public Outreach

To make the message heard loud and clear, campaign leaders have adopted a multi-platform outreach strategy:

  • Popular Tamil television channels such as Sun TV and Puthiya Thalaimurai have featured informative segments and public awareness messages supporting the initiative..
  • Regional newspapers, including Dinamalar, Dinathanthi, and The Hindu Tamil Edition, have published articles and opinion pieces supporting the campaign.
  • Radio stations and social media platforms have been used to amplify the message using hashtags like #CoolChennai, #24DegreeChallenge, and #EnergyEfficientLiving.

Real Impact: From Households to Hospitality

Chennai’s residential neighborhoods, corporate offices, educational institutions, and hotels have begun implementing the 24°C norm. Malls like Express Avenue and Phoenix Marketcity have adjusted their thermostats. Hotels and tech parks, particularly in areas like OMR and T. Nagar, have joined the movement to save energy while maintaining customer comfort.

Some government buildings and metro stations in Chennai are also embracing these standards, proving that small changes at scale lead to major results.

Benefits of Setting Your AC to 24°C

  1. Lower Electricity Bills: Save 20–30% on your monthly energy costs.
  2. Extended Appliance Life: AC units run more efficiently, leading to fewer breakdowns.
  3. Environmental Protection: Reduced energy consumption means a lower carbon footprint.
  4. Better Health: Extreme cooling can lead to respiratory issues and colds; 24°C is safer for long exposure.
  5. Support the Grid: Reduced demand during peak hours helps prevent blackouts and grid overloads.

How You Can Join the Movement

  • Set your AC temperature to 24°C at home and in the office.
  • Use ceiling fans along with your AC for better airflow.
  • Share your support online using #CoolChennai.
  • Talk to your apartment association or workplace facility manager to adopt the 24°C rule.
  • Educate your family and neighbors about the benefits of energy-conscious cooling.

Final Thoughts

Chennai is showing the rest of the country how to stay cool, smartly, and sustainably. The 24°C campaign is more than a recommendation; it’s a collective movement toward a greener future. As citizens, we all have a role to play in conserving energy and protecting our environment.

This summer, take a step toward conscious cooling. Set your AC to 24°C. Save power, save money, and help keep Chennai cool—in every sense of the word.

Feel free to browse through our latest blogs and discover how small actions can lead to meaningful change.