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