UK orders air‑conditioner removals under net‑zero rules amid 40°C heat

Local planning authorities in London have ordered homeowners to dismantle air‑conditioning units despite a red‑alert heatwave with temperatures reaching 40 °C. The measures are part of the UK’s “London Plan” and broader net‑zero emissions objectives, which require passive cooling methods such as opening windows and using fans before resorting to active cooling. Critics say the policy leaves residents without modern comfort during extreme heat, while officials argue it is necessary to curb energy use and meet climate targets.

Across Europe, air‑conditioning remains a luxury for many households due to high electricity costs and historic building designs. A study cited by CNN notes that only about 20 % of European homes have AC, compared with 90 % in the United States. Some countries, such as Spain, have already imposed temperature‑setting limits on public AC units to avoid raising outdoor temperatures. Experts warn that the number of AC units in the EU could double by 2050, challenging climate‑neutral goals.

The combined push to restrict AC use reflects a tension between public health needs during record heatwaves and the drive to reduce energy consumption in line with climate commitments.