Telangana govt mandates 25°C AC setting in all state offices

HYDERABAD: In a bid to beat the summer heat and save energy, the Telangana government has ordered all state departments to keep office air-conditioning fixed at 25°C.
The directive, issued after a proposal from TG-REDCO Vice Chairman & Managing Director, aims to reduce electricity use and curb peak power demand as part of the state’s Telangana Rising by 2047 vision to become India’s first Net Zero State.
The order aligns with national and international energy efficiency standards, including the Bureau of Energy Efficiency’s 2018 default temperature guidelines. Standardizing AC settings across government facilities establishes a framework that supports sustainability and occupant comfort.
Why 25°C matters
Space cooling in government buildings contributes significantly to peak electricity demand, making it a low-hanging fruit for immediate energy savings. The 25°C mandate balances occupant comfort and energy conservation, potentially reducing electricity bills and extending equipment life.
The government has directed all institutions to ensure adherence to these standards. However, the order acknowledges that specific operational needs may require deviations in some cases.
In addition to saving energy, maintaining AC temperatures at 25°C supports a healthier indoor environment by reducing temperature differences and minimizing the risk of thermal shock when moving between spaces.
This directive is part of the Telangana government’s broader demand-side management efforts to achieve net-zero emissions by 2047. By setting an example in government operations, the state aims to encourage similar practices in the private sector and households.
The move reinforces Telangana’s commitment to sustainable development and shows how simple operational changes can contribute to larger climate goals. Adherence to these standards will help reduce electricity consumption, lower peak demand, and create a healthier indoor environment, with compliance to be ensured across all facilities, subject to specific operational and functional requirements where deviations are necessary.

