Malaysian govt monitors aircon use

All Malaysian government offices will have to observe minimum air-conditioning temperature of 24 degrees Celsius soon, says Bernama.com.

Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Peter Chin Fah Kui said the energy saving step would come into force once chief secretary issues a circular on it to the government Tan Sri Mohd Sidek Hassan.

About 40% to 60% of Putrajaya's electricity bill goes to air-conditioning, Chin said, adding that the move was part of an immediate measure to kick-start the government's long-term energy efficiency master plan, writes Free Malaysia today.

The government is working on drafting a Bill to enforce the policy on the private sector and is expected to be fully implemented in 2013.

Chin adds that for every degree dropped in air-conditioning temperature, the government can slash its energy bill by between 4% and 7%.

He said for now the prime minister has agreed that all government buildings set their temperatures at no lower than 24 degrees unless under certain circumstances such as the hospitals, reports The Star online.