Time for upgrade

How upgrading AC systems can future-proof our region?

- SANDRA BOU MADI

The global demand for space cooling has been significantly increasing due to booming populations, unplanned growth in urban areas and the pace of infrastructure development. And, with the steady increase of global summer temperatures the need for considered cooling has never been more pressing. It’s estimated that increased AC use has contributed to a steep increase in carbon emissions (up to 1,130 million tonnes) globally which brings with it direct environmental impact.

According to a report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), if immediate action is not taken, the global energy use of space cooling is estimated to increase over threefold by 2050. This is up to more than 6,000 terawatts per hour each year, becoming the second-strongest driver in overall electricity demand growth. This situation calls for action and highlights the pressing need to specify energy efficient HVAC products in new developments, and to replace outdated inefficient air conditioning (AC) systems in old buildings with new energy conservative ones. Retrofitting (repurposing buildings with smart, highly efficient cooling technologies) is one of the most important strategies that we can use to contribute to a better, more sustainable environment.