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European summers are getting brutally hot. So why is air conditioning so rare?
Yahoo • • business
Key Points:
- Europe is experiencing more frequent and intense heat waves due to climate change, but air conditioning remains rare in European homes, with only about 20% equipped compared to nearly 90% in the US.
- Historical factors such as traditionally milder climates, high energy costs, lower incomes, and architectural designs aimed at natural cooling have limited the adoption of air conditioning in Europe.
- Regulatory challenges, including restrictions on installing outdoor AC units in conservation areas and climate commitments to reduce emissions, further hinder widespread use of air conditioning.
- Despite concerns over energy consumption and climate impact, demand for air conditioning in Europe is rising rapidly, with projections indicating the number of units could more than double by 2050.
- Experts emphasize the need for efficient cooling technologies and stronger regulations to mitigate the environmental impact of increased air conditioning use while addressing the growing health risks from extreme heat.
