This year’s intense heatwave has sharply increased the demand for room air-conditioners across the country, with annual sales expected to reach approximately 14 million units, according to the Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA). CEAMA President, Mr. Sunil Vachani, highlighted the impressive sales figures for air-conditioners in May, anticipating a 30% to 40% rise in sales volume during the summer months. He noted that rising temperatures and frequent heatwaves have made air-conditioners an essential household item in urban areas. The Indian air-conditioner market is evolving with the availability of energy-efficient models for various income groups and significant investments by companies in local manufacturing of components.
The nation has experienced unprecedented temperatures this season, with some regions, including Delhi-NCR, exceeding 45 degrees Celsius. Appliance manufacturers like Voltas, LG, and Haier have reported a twofold increase in year-on-year sales volumes for May, despite challenges with installation delays and inventory restocking of popular energy-efficient models. Establishing local manufacturing units for components under the PLI scheme has been crucial in meeting the growing demand. Haier Appliances India President, Mr. NS Satish, acknowledged the ongoing demand for efficient and high-quality air conditioning during extreme summer temperatures. Based on last year’s trends and current consumer behavior, a strong demand for cooling appliances is expected this summer. Haier anticipates a 103% increase in AC sales and a 30% rise in refrigerator sales from March to May compared to last year. The company projects a 35-40% growth in AC sales and a 30% growth in refrigerator sales, reaffirming its commitment to delivering superior products and ensuring customer satisfaction.
