Europe Swelters: ACs Scarce, Cities Cook

Europe is currently facing an extreme and deadly heatwave, with a critical shortage of air conditioning intensifying the crisis. Reports indicate that only about 20% of European homes are equipped with AC units, with countries like France and the UK having particularly low penetration rates. This lack of cooling infrastructure contributes to unbearable living conditions, especially in densely populated urban centers.

In Paris, the iconic zinc roofs, often un-insulated, turn upper-floor apartments into unbearable ovens during the day and night. Residents describe experiencing severe sleep disruption and intense heat, feeling as though they are constantly running a marathon. The situation is further complicated by the fact that air conditioning itself can exacerbate the urban heat island effect by re-emitting heat into the environment.

The reliance on air conditioning also raises concerns about power grids. Even if powered by renewables, extreme heat can strain energy supplies. In France, a recent heat dome led to reduced wind speeds and less cool water for nuclear plants, impacting power output and increasing wholesale electricity prices. This intensified heat, estimated to be two to four degrees higher due to human-caused warming, has resulted in hundreds of deaths and overburdened emergency medical services.