Record-Breaking Heatwave in Asia
A record-breaking heatwave is currently affecting parts of Asia, leading to a surge in demand for cooling options, particularly air-conditioning units.
Urban Landscapes in Asia
Air-conditioning exhaust units have become a common sight in urban landscapes across Asia. In cities like Hong Kong, they can be seen attached to towering apartment blocks, providing much-needed relief from the scorching temperatures.
In countries like Cambodia, these units are strategically placed, often forming a cross between windows of buildings to combat the extreme heat.
Impact of Heatwaves
The temperatures in the region have been breaking records, with many areas experiencing highs of 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) or even higher. Scientists have been warning about the increasing frequency, duration, and intensity of heatwaves due to human-induced climate change.
Air-Conditioning Usage in Southeast Asia
Despite the rising demand for cooling, only 15 percent of homes in Southeast Asia are equipped with air-conditioning units, as reported by the International Energy Agency (IEA) in 2019.
However, there are significant disparities within the region, with installation rates ranging from around 80 percent in countries like Singapore and Malaysia to less than 10 percent in Indonesia and Vietnam.
Future Projections
Forecasts indicate that with increasing temperatures and improved wages, the number of air-conditioning units in Southeast Asia could skyrocket from 40 million in 2017 to 300 million by 2040. This rapid increase in demand may strain local electricity capacities, which are already under pressure.
Challenges in Electricity Supply
Countries like Myanmar are currently facing challenges in electricity production, generating only half of the required electricity daily. Factors such as weak hydropower due to insufficient rains, low natural gas yields, and attacks on infrastructure have been cited as reasons for the shortage.
Thailand has also witnessed a surge in power demand, especially during recent weeks when people seek refuge indoors in cooled environments.
Environmental Impact and Mitigation Efforts
Despite the benefits of air-conditioning, it is a significant contributor to carbon dioxide emissions, releasing approximately one billion metric tons per year globally. To address this issue, countries have pledged to improve the efficiency of air conditioners and reduce emissions through initiatives like the United Nations’ Global Cooling Pledge.
Some nations, like Japan, have been implementing measures to reduce the environmental impact of cooling systems. For instance, Japan introduced the “Cool Biz” program in 2005, encouraging office workers to dress more casually to maintain indoor temperatures at 28 degrees Celsius. This initiative gained importance during power shortages in 2011 following the Fukushima disaster.