Heatwaves: Switzerland debates solutions for cooling the country

Switzerland is experiencing a heated political debate surrounding air conditioning as heatwaves become more frequent. The issue has escalated into a significant political battle, with proposals flooding in to encourage the wider deployment of cooling systems.

"Air conditioning has become a political battlefield," noted Le Temps in July 2025. A year later, the debate continues. During a recent discussion on RTS, national councilor Philippe Nantermod of the Liberal Party (PLR) confronted Green Party councilor Raphaël Mahaim. Nantermod criticized the Green Party's stance, stating, "For years, the PLR has been asking for the possibility of installing air conditioning in homes, and many Greens oppose it... They believe we should not take measures that allow people to live in a more comfortable climate."

The core of the disagreement lies in differing approaches to climate adaptation. The Liberal Party appears to prioritize individual comfort and immediate solutions, advocating for the widespread adoption of air conditioning. Conversely, the Green Party seems more focused on long-term environmental sustainability and potentially discouraging reliance on energy-intensive cooling systems that could exacerbate climate change.

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For years, the PLR has been asking for the possibility of installing air conditioning in homes, and many Greens oppose it... They believe we should not take measures that allow people to live in a more comfortable climate.