India, March 15 -- A new generation of super-efficient air conditioners could reduce energy use by up to 60 per cent and help India cope with rapidly rising temperatures and surging demand for cooling, according to industry experts.

The proposal emerged at a summit in Mumbai organised by the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) and CEPT University, where manufacturers, researchers and policymakers discussed how the country could meet growing cooling needs without placing excessive pressure on electricity systems.

India has been experiencing intense early-season heat. Mumbai recently recorded temperatures of 38.7degC, nearly six degrees above the March average. Experts say such extremes are becoming more frequent as climate change drives risin...