Limiting the Impact of Increasing Cooling Demand in the European Union: Results from a Study on Room Air-Conditioner Energy Efficiency

Jérôme Adnot and Matthieu Orphelin, Ecole des Mines de Paris, France
Carlos Lopes, Centro para a Conservação de Energia, Portugal
Paul Waide, PW Consulting, United Kingdom

Keywords

Abstract

The traditionally low demand for artificial cooling in Europe is rapidly giving way to a new ‘air conditioning culture’, especially in southern European countries, where the climate and the improving living conditions are driving up demand. As a consequence, RACs are flourishing and policy actions are needed to reduce their growing energy consumption. This paper presents the results of a study sponsored by the European Commission to investigate the potential to improve the energy efficiency of room air-conditioners (RACs) sold in the EU and to recommend policy measures. Representatives from eight countries, the main manufacturers’ associations and the two largest European utilities participated in the study.

The market and stock of RACs are estimated for both the residential and tertiary sectors. Energy and CO2 projections are made for the next 20 years that predict rapidly growing but still moderate penetration rates compared to the levels seen in the USA or Japan today. Nevertheless, RAC-related CO2 emissions in the EU are forecast to increase 11-fold by 2010, the deadline for compliance with the Kyoto protocol targets. An extensive technical and economic analysis of potential energy efficiency options revealed a cost-effective saving potential of +25% over current average energy efficiency levels. Consumer surveys and a manufacturer policy impact analysis were also conducted.

Market-transformation policies outside Europe are reviewed and the policy actions required to realize the economic optimum savings potential are discussed. Potential energy and CO₂ savings from the enactment of these policy measures are estimated. Lastly, policy recommendations at the EU level are described, including minimum efficiency standards and labelling.