Rise in air conditioning: 'We experienced the same phenomenon with electric heaters, the famous toasters, in the 70s'

The increasing prevalence of air conditioning units is being compared to the widespread adoption of electric heaters, often referred to as "toasters," in the 1970s. This surge in cooling technology raises questions about energy consumption and societal adaptation to heat.

Sociologist Gaëtan Brisepierre, a specialist in co-ownership properties, points out the limitations of a policy that prioritizes air conditioning as the primary solution for managing indoor temperatures. He observes that renovation projects are still not effectively integrating the challenges posed by rising spring and summer heat.

Brisepierre's perspective suggests a need for a more comprehensive approach to building design and retrofitting that considers thermal comfort and energy efficiency beyond simply installing cooling systems. The comparison to the 1970s electric heater phenomenon implies a potential for similar issues related to energy demand and infrastructure strain.

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We experienced the same phenomenon with electric heaters, the famous toasters, in the 70s.