The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources said that rising summer temperatures and more frequent heat waves resulting from climate change are increasing air conditioner use.
A study by ministry experts found that approximately 11 million air conditioners were installed in Turkish households as of 2025. Projections indicate that this figure could increase by nearly 100 percent over the next 10 years.
Electricity consumption could also rise
The increase in the number of household air conditioners is also expected to affect electricity used for heating and cooling. Total electricity consumption by air conditioners could rise from 6,000 gigawatt-hours in 2025 to more than 12,000 gigawatt-hours in 2035.
Air conditioner sales have increased significantly in Türkiye in recent years, while electricity used for cooling, particularly during the summer, has become a major component of total electricity demand.
During periods of extreme heat, increased air conditioner use contributes to daily electricity consumption reaching record levels. This effect is expected to become more pronounced in the coming years as the impact of climate change intensifies and air conditioner ownership becomes more widespread among households.
The right temperature setting can save energy
Ministry experts say that setting the temperature correctly is one of the easiest ways to reduce the impact of air conditioner use on energy consumption. During the summer, air conditioners are recommended to be set to an indoor temperature of at least 24 degrees Celsius.
Setting an air conditioner to temperatures lower than necessary can significantly increase energy consumption, while raising the temperature setting by every 2 degrees could save up to 15 percent on energy bills.