LOWER AC COST
Columbia Engineering built a pigment-free paint filled with microscopic air pores; it stayed 6°C below surrounding air during hot desert tests in Arizona
Researchers at Columbia University and Purdue University have unveiled an experimental paint-like coating that can cool surfaces to temperatures below the ambient environment. This cutting-edge material reflects over ninety-six percent of solar energy and effectively radiates heat by utilizing air pockets instead of traditional pigments. Although this promising technology is in the exploratory phase, it is not yet available for commercial use.
Ventura initiates coverage on Meesho and LG India, sees up to 35% upside
Ventura Securities has initiated coverage on Meesho and LG Electronics India with Buy ratings, seeing up to 35% upside. The brokerage expects Meesho to benefit from value-commerce growth and improved monetisation, while LG India could gain from appliance premiumisation, localisation, exports and rising demand for cooling solutions.
MIT built a three-layer passive cooling panel of aerogel, hydrogel and reflective material; tests cooled it 9.3°C below ambient and suggested up to 40% longer food storage in humid conditions
Researchers have created a passive cooling system that uses natural processes. This innovative device cools significantly below ambient air temperatures without electricity. The system can extend the shelf life of perishable foods, especially in humid conditions. Space cooling demand is rapidly increasing globally, straining power grids. This technology offers a promising solution for off-grid cooling needs.
Electricity bill reduced by 60%: Woman shares AC setting she claims helped slash monthly bill significantly
A content creator’s two-part AC experiment has sparked discussion after she reported a monthly electricity bill drop from about Rs 3,500 to Rs 1,292 after raising the temperature setting from 22°C to 28°C. She said usage remained around five to seven hours daily. While her calculation suggests possible annual savings of about Rs 26,500, she noted that actual results depend on the appliance and conditions.
Expensive living? Inflation hits coriander to cars in India
Consumer goods companies are increasing prices and reducing pack sizes. Automobile manufacturers and tyre companies also announced significant price hikes. Rising commodity and energy costs are pressuring company margins. India's retail inflation has moved above the Reserve Bank of India's target. Policymakers are watching for broader inflation spread across the economy.
Voltas shares in focus after Q1 profit surges 52%. Buy, Sell or Hold?
Voltas reported a strong Q1 FY27, with consolidated net profit rising 52% YoY to ₹213 crore and revenue growing 19% to ₹4,673 crore. However, the revenue miss and continued weakness in non-RAC businesses have kept Goldman Sachs cautious on the stock, despite the robust earnings growth.
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Hindalco posts record Q1 profit of Rs 7,013 crore as aluminium prices soar
Hindalco Industries achieved record profit and sales in the June quarter, driven by soaring aluminium prices and a rebound at Novelis. The company is now focused on executing ongoing projects valued at fifty thousand crore rupees while exploring further investments for future growth. Aluminium prices are projected to stay robust, despite a slight sequential dip.
Purdue University created paint so white that a coated surface stayed 8°F below the surrounding air at noon
Purdue University researchers developed an ultra-white paint reflecting nearly all sunlight. This innovative paint keeps surfaces cooler than the surrounding air temperature. Outdoor tests showed significant cooling effects during both day and night. The paint's formulation uses barium sulfate and varied particle sizes for extreme reflectivity. This breakthrough could significantly reduce electricity costs for cooling homes.
Chris Wood warns AI capex binge may burn billions as markets turn against Big Tech spending
Wood’s long-standing view is that the “hyperscalers will end up blowing a lot of money on their capex binge” and that AI could resemble the airline industry more than the winner-takes-all economics of the internet era.
Income tax guide: Allowance and reimbursement exemption limits every salaried employee should know
Salaried employees should know income tax exemption limits for various allowances. Leave Travel Allowance is exempt for self and family travel within India. Children Education Allowance offers exemption up to three thousand rupees per child. Phone bill reimbursements are generally not taxable for employees. Meal card benefits are exempt up to two hundred rupees per meal.
Companies fold back discounts as cost clouds hang low
Companies are also putting fewer products on sale, signalling a shift away from aggressive promotions despite ongoing end-of-season sales, said industry executives. Electronics and smartphone brands have cut direct discounts on maximum retail prices, cashback offers and card-based promotions by 5-7 percentage points compared to last year, according to market tracker Counterpoint Research.
Christopher Wood warns of AI fatigue. Why Jefferies is turning to India and China
Christopher Wood of Jefferies warns that the AI trade is showing signs of fatigue as investors seek cheaper value opportunities. With India and China positioned to benefit from a rotation away from crowded AI winners, Wood believes picks-and-shovels companies will continue to outperform amid massive AI capex and uncertain monetisation.
ET Prime Special Series: Multibagger or IBC - Part 66: This old auto ancillary giant is betting big on the next energy shift
For 40 years, this was one of those businesses the market treated as safe – and slightly dull. It dominated its market, and it generated steady cash. Almost all its profit still comes from that old product. But the company has quietly decided its future lies somewhere else entirely. The company has changed its name, set up a new-energy subsidiary, committed capital to a large manufacturing facility. The opportunity is large. As is the risk. The new business is small for now, capital-heavy, and exposed to technology, timing, and customer adoption.
Millions leave this thermostat setting on by mistake; HVAC experts say it could be raising your power bill
Your thermostat's "Fan" setting can significantly impact your electricity bill. Running it on "On" continuously uses unnecessary energy and can worsen humidity issues, according to the Department of Energy and EPA. The "Auto" setting, recommended by experts, only activates the fan when heating or cooling, saving money and improving dehumidification. While "On" can help with temperature consistency in some homes, "Auto" is generally the more cost-effective choice for most households.
FMCG companies ride the heatwave to make cool gains
Intense heatwaves fueled double-digit sales growth for FMCG, white goods, and retailers in the April-June quarter. Companies reported improved operating profits, aided by price hikes, despite rising input costs. While optimistic about consumption, firms are closely watching inflationary trends and El Nino's potential monsoon impact. Summer products saw a significant boost, though some categories faced challenges.
How to sleep in a heat wave without AC: Experts reveal when to stop using a fan and the simple bathroom hack that helps
Millions of Americans are searching for how to keep a bedroom cool without AC as record summer heat pushes nighttime temperatures higher. One simple bathroom towel cooling trick is gaining attention because it costs almost nothing and may improve sleep by using evaporative cooling. Health experts also warn that fans alone are not always safe during extreme heat.
Stanford researchers say your car heats up to 40 degrees in an hour, and does a sunshade solution work?
A parked car can become dangerously hot, even on cooler days, with interior temperatures soaring by 40 degrees Fahrenheit in just an hour. Research highlights that a simple windscreen sunshade significantly reduces this heat buildup by reflecting sunlight. Cracking windows or pre-cooling the car offers minimal benefit. Using a well-fitting, reflective sunshade is a cost-effective way to protect your car's interior and make summer drives more comfortable.
Blue Star MD flags 2% margin drop this summer but bets big on data centres for long-term growth
Blue Star experienced a robust summer AC sales season, but rising input costs significantly impacted profit margins. The company's MD anticipates continued margin pressure, revising full-year guidance downwards. While the festive season offers a glimmer of hope for recovery, Blue Star is strategically investing in the high-growth data centre cooling sector, aiming for substantial revenue contribution by FY29.
Growing heat needs affordable cooling
As record-breaking heatwaves sweep across Europe and Asia, the spotlight is cast on the urgent necessity for innovative cooling strategies that extend beyond traditional air conditioning. Experts emphasize a dual strategy: immediately implementing cost-effective passive cooling techniques such as cool roofs and enhancing building designs for communities at risk, while also fostering the development of innovative and economic technologies like district cooling.
Waka Waka! Indian consumer giants seek to roar louder in Africa
Indian consumer firms are significantly boosting investments in Africa, shifting from market entry to large-scale operations. Driven by a young population and underpenetrated markets, beverages, hair care, and personal care sectors are showing robust growth. Companies, such as GCPL, VBL, Dabur India and Marico are prioritizing local manufacturing and distribution, viewing Africa as a crucial long-term growth engine despite currency volatility and retail fragmentation.
Why India’s digital ecosystem may define next phase of agentic AI and invisible computing
India's unique relationship with technology, where smartphones serve as the sole device for millions, positions it as a crucial testing ground for AI's next phase. Moving beyond simple question-and-answer models, agentic AI will integrate seamlessly into daily life here, acting on habits and context.
Can pouring a bucket of water on AC compressor cut your electricity bills?
As heatwaves grip Indian cities, a simple hack of pouring water on AC outdoor units can offer temporary efficiency boosts. This method cools condenser coils, reducing the compressor's workload and potentially lowering electricity bills. While effective in dry climates, caution is advised during application.
“AC bill too high even at 24°C?”: Expert reveals how to run air conditioner with up to 30% lower power consumption
Energy auditor says AC electricity bills can be reduced by up to 30% through a combination of simple habits, low-cost upgrades, and regular maintenance. From using a BLDC fan to monitoring energy consumption and protecting the outdoor unit from heat, he shares practical measures that could help households improve cooling efficiency and lower power usage.
What if your AC could reveal its true monthly cost & detect faults before they turn into expensive repairs? Startup explains how it can
Helium Air, a new AC startup, is challenging established brands like Voltas and LG by focusing on transparency and technology. The company offers a connected app providing detailed insights into energy consumption and machine health, aiming to build customer trust through direct access to performance data and early problem detection.
Centre asks AC makers to accelerate sales of energy-efficient models
The Centre has urged air conditioner manufacturers to boost sales of energy-efficient models, particularly 5-star rated units, to manage peak power demand and ensure grid stability this summer. Older ACs that consume significantly more electricity need replacement to achieve energy savings and support India's climate goals.
How to buy the right air conditioner
A lower capacity AC may be cheaper but it will increase electricity consumption and also decrease the life span of the device
Only 14% families buy high star ACs, cost remains key barrier: CEEW
The studies found that 93 per cent households in tier II cities, that are aware of the star labelling programme, find it useful, the CEEW said in a statement.
Samsung India to re-enter windows and fixed speed split AC
The Korean giant is re-entering mass air conditioners in India from next year with an aggressive pricing strategy.
Cool summer ahead: AC prices down sharply, won't burn a hole in your pocket this year
Prices of premium, energy efficient inverter ACs have crashed by up to 25 per cent as LG Electronics seeks to set competitive benchmarks.
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