Demand for Cooling is on the rise

Following one of the hottest summers on record we’re researching the efficiency of cooling systems.

On July 25, the United Kingdom saw the highest temperature recorded since 2003. On the Underground commuters were encouraged to drink water and take breaks whilst commuting. The UK is not alone: Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands have also hit record high temperatures this summer.

More frequent and intense heatwaves have caused many of us to stop and think about the need for air conditioning. The benefits of access are widespread, in addition to increasing comfort, access to air conditioning improves outcomes in education, health and productivity.

Only 9% of households in Indonesia and 5% in India—two of the most populous countries in the world—have air conditioning. Despite this, the use of air conditioning and electric fans already accounts for some 10% of all global electricity consumption today. Demand for cooling is on the rise – a shift towards more efficient and accessible systems is necessary.

Earlier this month, Diana Hindle Fisher and Conor Griffin prevented the initial findings of an upcoming EIU report on cooling. The presentation took place at Climate Week NYC and the report is expected to be published in October 2019.