Is India’s 14 Mn AC Boom a Cooling Relief or Climate Catastrophe?

India's record-breaking sale of 14 million air conditioners in 2024 marks a significant shift in how the country is adapting to rising temperatures and extreme heat. As heatwaves intensify across various regions, the demand for cooling is becoming a necessity rather than a luxury. However, this surge also raises urgent questions about energy sustainability and environmental consequences.

According to AFP, residential AC ownership in India is projected to increase ninefold by 2050. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recently reported new heatwave conditions gripping parts of eastern India since May 10, while states such as West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh are expected to face extreme temperatures until mid-May. These heatwaves, with temperatures approaching 50 degrees Celsius, are creating severe health risks for millions without reliable access to cooling.

The increase in air conditioner use offers immediate comfort, but also poses significant long-term challenges. As temperatures climb, electricity demand spikes—much of it driven by air conditioning needs. India’s current power infrastructure, heavily reliant on coal, is already under pressure. The widespread use of air conditioners is expected to contribute further to power surges and electricity shortages.

The India Energy and Climate Center (IECC) published a study on March 26 warning that between 130 and 150 million new room ACs could be added over the next decade. This would lead to a rise in peak electricity demand by over 180 gigawatts (GW) by 2035, putting immense strain on the grid and increasing dependence on fossil fuels. With the majority of India’s electricity still generated from coal, this trend could drive up greenhouse gas emissions, worsening urban heat and air pollution.

Environmental concerns are not limited to electricity use. The type of refrigerants used in air conditioners adds another layer to the problem. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), common coolants in ACs, are known for their high global warming potential—up to 1,000 times that of carbon dioxide. Unless the use of HFCs is drastically reduced, scientists estimate this could add as much as 0.5°C of global warming by the end of the century, significantly increasing the risks of climate-driven disasters such as droughts, storms, and extreme heat.

While the Indian government has proposed raising energy efficiency standards for air conditioners, implementation remains inconsistent. A large portion of consumers still opt for cheaper models that lack energy-saving features, exacerbating the strain on the power grid and increasing carbon emissions.

Experts suggest that a sustainable path forward will require a mix of stricter regulations, public awareness, incentives for high-efficiency appliances, and a faster transition to renewable energy sources. Without significant policy changes and consumer behavior shifts, the current boom in air conditioning could deepen both energy and climate crises.

In conclusion, while the increased use of air conditioners in India provides short-term relief during deadly heatwaves, the long-term implications highlight a potential climate crisis. With energy demand soaring and infrastructure under stress, the challenge lies in balancing comfort with sustainability. The current trend underscores the urgent need for clean energy investments, efficient cooling technologies, and stricter regulatory standards to ensure that cooling India does not come at the cost of heating the planet.

Source:By Outlook Planet Desk