LG has launched a comprehensive range of air conditioners that fully comply with the new 2026 Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) Star Rating norms. The rollout, initiated ahead of the peak summer season, positions the brand among the first in the industry to align its portfolio with the upcoming energy benchmarks.
Understanding the 2026 BEE Norms
The updated standards set by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency represent a significant shift in energy benchmarks, designed to align Indian appliances with global energy performance standards. The 2026 framework introduces stricter efficiency thresholds to encourage the adoption of low-power technology.
Under these new guidelines, the criteria for star ratings have been elevated. For example, a model previously classified as 5-star under older norms may now be categorized as 4-star. LGEIL clarifies that this reclassification reflects a higher standard of required efficiency rather than a reduction in product performance.
Projecting Consumer Savings
The primary objective of the revised norms is the reduction of household power consumption. According to industry estimates cited by LGEIL, upgrading to a new 5-star air conditioner compliant with the 2026 norms can potentially result in savings of approximately ₹19,000 over a 10-year period. These projections vary based on individual usage patterns and local electricity tariff rates.
Key Features of the New Lineup
The 2026-compliant models integrate specific smart technologies aimed at optimizing cooling and energy management:
- Precool: This feature utilizes geofencing technology to automate cooling. Through the ThinQ platform, the air conditioner detects the user’s location and activates once the user enters a predefined distance range, ensuring the home is cooled prior to arrival.
- Energy Manager+: Designed to assist with consumption monitoring, this feature analyzes historical AC usage to recommend realistic operating hours. It allows users to set periodic budget targets based on these recommendations to manage electricity costs.
Market Availability and Transition
LG has confirmed that the new lineup is currently rolling out in the market starting from this January. This early release ensures that consumers purchasing units ahead of the summer have access to technology compliant with the latest regulations.
To facilitate the transition, the company is launching a multi-channel awareness campaign across print, digital, and retail platforms to educate consumers on the benefits and technicalities of the new star ratings.
LG’s manufacturing and supply chain operations have fully aligned with the new guidelines. However, the company noted that air conditioners manufactured under previous standards will remain available for purchase until existing stocks are liquidated, providing consumers with varied purchasing options during this transition period.
Regarding the launch, Sanjay Chitkara, Co-Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, LG Electronics India Limited
As India moves towards stricter energy efficiency norms, LG Electronics India Limited remains committed to supporting this transition through early compliance and future-ready product innovation. With our portfolio already aligned to the new BEE standards, LGEIL enters the new season well-prepared to offer reliable, energy-efficient air conditioning solutions that help our consumers save money while enjoying superior cooling.