 This research examines the dynamics of changing cooling consumption among India's urbanising middle class, using descriptive statistics, machine learning, and regression analysis to characterise AC usage in a sample dataset representative of areas in Delhi with above average AC penetration. The study finds that AC usage is influenced by household habits, structural factors, and socio-demographic features, and that preferences, behaviours, and awareness around energy efficiency affect both AC use and the purchase of more efficient ACs. Notable gender differences are observed, with women being less involved in decision-making around cooling appliances and less aware of technical know-how or energy-efficient schemes. Policy recommendations for a low-carbon cooling trajectory are discussed. This article was authored by Radhika Kozler, Anna Uggawal, Neelan Jan Sirkar, and others.