Japanese cities expand school gymnasium air conditioning for comfort and disaster relief

Municipalities in Japan are advancing plans to install air conditioning in school gymnasiums to improve student environments and enhance disaster preparedness.

Sakai City is implementing air conditioning in 31 junior high schools this fiscal year. The city has opted for gas-powered heat pump (GHP) systems, which can operate during power outages and provide limited electricity for charging mobile devices. This decision was driven by lower long-term running costs compared to electric systems and the ability to utilize gas supplies, which are often restored quickly following earthquakes. Sakai City has also established an agreement with Osaka Gas Network to prioritize gas supply to essential facilities during disasters.

In Shiga Prefecture, Higashiomi City has announced a plan to complete air conditioning installation in all elementary school gymnasiums by fiscal year 2031. This initiative aims to align with national government targets for school facility improvements.