NEW YORK (VINnews) — Mayor Zohran Mamdani faced criticism after urging New Yorkers to set their air conditioners to 78 degrees to help reduce strain on the city’s power grid during a heat wave expected to push temperatures near 100 degrees.

In a social media post, Mamdani encouraged residents to conserve electricity by setting thermostats to 78 degrees, turning off unused lights and electronics, and unplugging devices. He said city buildings would also follow the energy-saving measures.

The recommendation sparked backlash online, with critics arguing the suggested temperature was too warm during the extreme heat.

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting air conditioners between 75 and 78 degrees during the summer to balance comfort and energy efficiency. Temperatures in New York City are forecast to approach 100 degrees through the holiday weekend.

New York: it's hot out there, and the power grid is working overtime to keep us cool.

Set your AC to 78 degrees, turn off lights/electronics you're not using, and unplug what you can.

Our City is doing its part too: maintaining the 78 degrees rule in our buildings,…

— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) July 1, 2026

Is Gracie Mansion AC also set to 78 degrees in this scorching heat? Asking for a friend…. https://t.co/u9cTLClusj

— Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (@InnaVernikov) July 1, 2026