India can avert power shortages with stronger AC efficiency standards: Study

India can avoid severe power shortages and save consumers up to Rs 2.2 lakh crore ($26 billion) by doubling the energy efficiency of room air conditioners (ACs) over the next decade, according to a new study at University of California (UC) Berkeley.

The study conducted by India Energy and Climate Center (IECC) highlights that India adds 10 to 15 million new ACs annually, with another 130 to 150 million expected over the next decade.

“The country can avoid severe power shortages and save consumers up to Rs 2.2 lakh crore ($26 billion) by doubling the…