“In a world where rising temperatures and smarter lifestyles go hand-in-hand, air conditioning is no longer just about cooling—it’s about comfort, connectivity, and conscious living. As Mr. Hirokazu Kamoda, Director – HVAC Business, Panasonic Life Solutions India, shares, the brand is redefining the HVAC experience by blending cutting-edge innovations with user-centric features that offer more than just a breeze. From IoT-enabled controls to Matter-integrated platforms and VRF systems engineered for precision, Panasonic is ushering in a new era of brilliance in cooling—one that’s energy-efficient, intelligent, and built for the homes and businesses of tomorrow.”
How has the air conditioning industry evolved in today’s world?
India’s HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) industry is undergoing rapid transformation, currently valued at $11.8 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $29.4 billion by 2030, growing at a robust CAGR of 16.3%. Residential AC penetration, though still modest at 7–8%, is poised to grow at 16.5% CAGR (2023–2029), driven by factors such as rapid urbanization, infrastructure expansion, favorable government policies, and rising disposable incomes that are fueling demand for premium, tech-forward cooling solutions. Backed by over 65 years of global expertise, Panasonic offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-efficient, IoT-enabled ACs—across Residential (RAC), Packaged (PAC), and VRF systems—catering to both home and commercial applications with performance, reliability, and smart connectivity at its core.
How are IoT (Internet of Things) and AI-driven automation revolutionizing air conditioning?
IoT and AI-powered automation are driving the next growth phase within the air conditioning sector, making cooling smarter, more connected, and more eco-friendly. For instance, at Panasonic we have Miraie – an IoT enabled connected living platform that ensures comfort, connectivity, convenience, and energy efficiency. Panasonic’s Miraie enabled air conditioners can be managed from anywhere using a smartphone. To make lives more convenient and comfortable for our consumers, we have integrated Matter, an open, universal standard, with our Miraie platform and introduced India’s first Matter-enabled Room Air Conditioners. So now a Panasonic Air Conditioner equipped with Matter technology can be managed using the Miraie platform or any other platform that is Matter compatible. Similarly, any other Room Air Conditioner brand that is compatible with Matter can also be controlled through the Miraie platform. Recently, in the 2025 line-up of ACs we have extended the Matter range to the inverter 3-star segment
What are your key focus areas for expansion and growth in the coming years?
At Panasonic, all our tech-breakthroughs are centered on two focus areas: sustainable technology and consumer insights. With the rising temperature globally, we are looking at a more energy efficient and a smart approach to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) products designed for consumers, builders and architects to construct tomorrow’s smart homes, today. With that in mind, we design our ACs that extend beyond basic cooling i.e., technological integration (Matter, Miraie-enabled connectivity), indoor air hygiene, energy efficiency and optimum cooling performance to withstand extreme Indian summers. We see a huge opportunity in the India market with AC penetration pegged at just 7-8%. We have strengthened our distribution channel covering length and breadth of the country. Besides improving our retail presence, we service over 20,000 pin codes with our D2C channel and partnerships with online platforms
Are there any upcoming launches or innovations that we can look forward to?
Panasonic’s 2025 AC line-up introduces 61 new RAC models and 28 new CAC models, strengthening their portfolio with cutting-edge, energy-efficient solutions designed to handle extreme temperatures up to 55°C—ideal for India’s summers. The new range features technologies like Matter, Miraie, AI, and nanoe air purification, alongside one-touch service, a 7-in-1 convertible, and Ecotough outdoor units. In addition, the integration of Matter in 3-star inverter RACs powered by Miraie enhances the smart home experience, offering convenience and improving the total cost of ownership. For premium homes and offices, Panasonic offers customizable air conditioning designs, including their advanced VRF systems, FSV (Flexi System VRF), Inverter Cassette ACs, Tower ACs, and Miraie-enabled Residential ACs. With over 65 years of expertise, these tech-enabled solutions focus on comfort, reliability, and a connected experience, redefining smart living.
What advancements have been made in inverter and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) technology?
At Panasonic, we continue to innovate in inverter and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) technology to enhance energy efficiency, precision cooling, and sustainability. Our advanced inverter technology optimizes compressor speed, reducing power consumption while maintaining consistent temperatures, leading to higher efficiency and lower operating costs. Inverter ACs use variable-speed compressors that adjust their output to match the cooling demand, rather than running at a fixed, maximum capacity like standard units. Studies have shown that inverter ACs can be 30-50% more energy-efficient than traditional air conditioners. In VRF systems, we offer True VRF with intelligent controls, wide capacity range (4 HP–96 HP), and flexible indoor unit options to suit diverse applications—from small offices to large commercial spaces. Our advanced VRF technology is designed with trusted Japanese quality, ensuring effortless adaptability to any environment.