Rising demand for air conditioning offers energy-saving potential

Peak temperatures are setting new records. However with the heat is an increase in the use of air conditioning. The global demand for space cooling is expected to increase over the next ten years.

At present, space heating and cooling systems account for around 40% of building energy consumption around the world. Much of the growth is thought to take place in cities. The areas are also where the most savings can be found. Under the IEA’s requirements, global temperatures are to be limited to 2 degrees by 2050. Urban areas will be responsible for nearly 85% of the anticipated energy savings in cooling systems.

In OECD countries, a significant proportion of space cooling demand comes from the services sector. In non-OECD countries, the focus is on residential buildings. This will be added to with the addition of 900 million new households expected by 2050 in urban areas in non-OECD countries.

The new homes represent an opportunity to implement innovative policies and technological solutions that can limit energy demand in cooling and keep the world on track for its ceiling 2 degrees increase by 2020. For new buildings the priority will be in building design and policy development to reduce the need for cooling. This can include, in warmer climates, incorporation of reflective services in construction. This can reduce energy usage whilst maximising the comfort of residents.