The Building Decarbonization Coalition (BDC) has published a report emphasizing the importance of addressing cooling in the decarbonization of buildings.

Heatwaves in the United States have become more frequent and severe due to climate change, and predictions indicate that the next five years will be the hottest on record globally: by 2053, an alarming 107 million people in the United States could experience extreme heat conditions.

Cooling is becoming a urgent matter. The report shows that the demand for central air conditioning (AC) units has increased by 15% over the past decade. To tackle this challenge, the report recommends promoting the adoption of electric heat pumps as an alternative to central AC systems.

Several benefits can be listed:

• Heat pumps offer both heating and cooling capabilities at a similar price point and installation requirements as AC units.
• By choosing heat pumps, households can benefit from more efficient cooling, reduced operating costs, and lower energy demand during heatwaves.
• Heat pumps eliminate the need for fossil fuel heating, saving on future maintenance and installation expenses while reducing climate and air pollution.

Increasing consumer awareness and adoption of heat pumps, will be a challenge. Read the report to discover recommendations for policymakers, contractors, and consumers about sustainable cooling solutions.