The Future of Cooling: Implications for Energy and the Environment
- Start/Stop Date:
- 19 Jun 2018
- Organiser:
- EURACTIV
- Venue:
- European Parliament ASP A5E3 Rue Wiertz 60, 1047 Brussels
- Focus Areas:
- Space cooling
- Type of Event:
- Workshop
The demand for space cooling in buildings is expected to grow exponentially in the coming decades. It will provide millions of citizens a better quality of life, comfort and even higher labour productivity. At the same time, if not well anticipated, it could also jeopardise the achievement of our climate goals.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) report on cooling is revealing. In 2016, the global electricity use for space cooling amounted to 1954 TWh, the equivalent to all the energy used for aviation worldwide. This number will triple by 2050, mainly because of rising incomes and population, thereby putting a heavy burden on the electricity grid.
Best-in-class existing technology can turn this threat into a growth opportunity. The IEA shows that the adoption of minimum energy performance standards on cooling equipment can realistically halve the energy needs for space cooling. Efficient building design, a system approach and renewables can lead to even more benefits. But is the regulatory framework fit for the challenge and ensuring that investments are made in sustainable cooling systems?
EURACTIV invites you to discuss the growing importance of space cooling for energy policy.