China’s New AC Policy Could Benefit People Around the World

A proposed revision to China’s room air conditioner efficiency standard represents an important step toward addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Appliance standards are often viewed as purely technical regulations with relatively limited real-world impact. In reality, however, they fundamentally influence which technologies are developed, manufactured, and made available to consumers. Over time, this can lead to dramatic improvements in the performance, affordability, and environmental impact of appliances used by billions of people.

Policies that encourage high-performance appliances often deliver benefits far beyond the markets where they are first introduced. They can help countries around the world achieve faster, more affordable progress toward meeting energy and climate goals, as well as help people be healthy and productive as temperatures rise.

The promise of AC efficiency policy

China’s proposed new AC efficiency standard is currently under review and could be published in 2027.

If adopted, it’s expected to increase the average efficiency of new room AC units sold in China by around 20%. Additional benefits include enabling smart grid integration to help manage energy demand, encouraging the use of climate-friendly refrigerants, and performing better in real-world conditions.

The policy comes at a pivotal moment. In many countries, rising heat and growing incomes are driving rapid growth in air conditioner ownership. AC delivers critical health and economic benefits but can also increase electricity demand, which can strain power grids, particularly during heat waves. Rising AC use can also lead to a spike in greenhouse gas emissions, worsening global warming.

Appliance efficiency policy is a critical tool for governments seeking to help people stay cool while minimizing these challenges. Energy-efficient air conditioners deliver the same level of comfort as less-efficient models while easing pressure on grids. They reduce emissions in places where electricity is produced by burning fossil fuels. Importantly, they also cost less to run, helping people save money.

A national standard with global reach 

If adopted, the standard would incentivize Chinese manufacturers to improve their products so they can continue selling them within the vast, lucrative domestic market. This would encourage investment in higher-efficiency AC components, advanced controls, and climate-friendly refrigerants.

As these technologies become more widely produced, they could also become more accessible in other parts of the world, creating new opportunities for governments seeking to raise the efficiency of appliances in their own countries.

Equally important, the revised standard provides practical evidence of what is technically and commercially achievable for other countries to draw from. Governments considering updates to their own appliance policies can learn from China’s experience while adapting requirements to local climates, electricity systems, and consumer needs.

By using China’s example to develop strong local standards, then ensuring that they’re effectively implemented, governments around the world can help ensure that their citizens benefit from advances in AC technology.