EU Refuses to Ban Air Conditioning, Citing Consumer Choice as Europe Swelters
"It is not the role of the EU executive to dictate consumer choices."
— Anna-Kaisa Itkonen, European Commission Spokesperson
The European Commission has stated it will not take a stance on the use of air conditioning (AC) in private households, saying it is not the role of the EU executive to dictate consumer choices. This comes amid a heatwave that killed at least 1,300 people in Europe.
The Numbers: A Cooling Gap
Approximately 20% of European households have AC, compared to over 90% in the US, Japan, and South Korea.
The Commission’s Current Position
Commission spokesperson Anna-Kaisa Itkonen said the EU addresses AC as part of policies on renovation and energy efficiency of buildings. The Commission will consider reviewing its stance if the political context changes, based on signals from member states.
The Debate: Necessity vs. Climate Cost
AC systems are contentious:
- Critics cite increased electricity demand and emissions.
- Advocates argue they ensure liveable conditions and maintain productivity.
In France, the far-right National Rally has proposed subsidized AC rollout. Greens leader Marine Tondelier acknowledged AC is "becoming" necessary.
What’s Next?
The Commission plans to present an Electrification Action Plan next month to electrify heating and cooling systems. The discussion occurs amid simplification of Green Deal policies under pressure, with the term "Green Deal" being replaced by "net zero" and "decarbonisation" in official communications.