New energy efficiency star ratings from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), effective January 1, 2026, are expected to increase the prices of air conditioners and refrigerators by 5-10 percent. These revised norms will effectively downgrade current star ratings, requiring new, more energy-efficient models. This price increase is anticipated to offset the benefits from September's GST reforms, which had previously lowered AC prices. Manufacturers also cite rising copper prices and a weaker rupee as contributing factors to the expected price hike.