The Liberal Democrats are calling for air conditioning to be installed in schools, hospitals, and new homes across the UK, arguing that the country is inadequately prepared for rising extreme temperatures. The party has released a report emphasizing the need for climate-ready infrastructure as parts of the UK anticipate further heatwaves.
Citing a report from the independent Climate Change Committee (CCC), the Liberal Democrats highlighted that an estimated 92% of existing homes could be at risk of overheating by 2050. Party leader Ed Farron stated the need to recognize more extreme weather patterns and ensure future housing is prepared for such conditions. The party suggests that incorporating air cooling systems, potentially through air source heat pumps, can be done without exacerbating the climate crisis.
The proposal includes mandating air conditioning in new housing developments. The Liberal Democrats contend that the cost to developers would be minimal relative to overall construction expenses, and cooler homes would be more appealing to future buyers. They also advocate for government funding to retrofit essential public buildings like schools and hospitals with air conditioning systems.
Concerns have been raised about the potential impact of air conditioning units on outdoor temperatures. Michael Whittall, sustainability manager at Fairview New Homes, explained that air conditioning works by transferring heat from indoors to outdoors, which can contribute to the urban heat island effect in densely populated areas, thereby increasing heat stress. He suggested that prioritizing passive cooling methods, such as improved building design, shading, and ventilation, would be more beneficial.
Amanda Williams, head of environmental sustainability at the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), acknowledged that air conditioning or reversible heat pumps may play a role in specific situations. However, she cautioned that making them standard practice could lead to increased energy consumption and advocated for designing buildings that remain comfortable throughout most of the year with less reliance on active cooling.
A spokesperson for the Home Builders Federation noted that modern new build homes are designed with high insulation standards, which helps maintain comfortable temperatures in both winter and summer and results in lower running costs compared to older properties.
The Liberal Democrats argue that the cost of implementing these measures is significantly less than the potential economic impact of climate change. They point to the CCC's estimates that climate impacts could cost the UK between £60 billion and £260 billion annually, compared to an estimated £7 billion to £22 billion for protective measures. The party has proposed that the cost of air conditioning for hospitals would be covered by its previously announced £10 billion investment plan for the National Health Service. The party's proposals come as the UK faces increasingly extreme weather events.