A persistent summer heatwave in Europe is prompting more and more households to reconsider their cooling options, a trend that is creating new opportunities for Chinese appliance manufacturers targeting markets that have long resisted air conditioning (AC).
According to a bulletin from the World Meteorological Organization, an early and intense heat wave hit across Europe in late June and early July.
Temperatures in southern Spain soared to 46 degrees Celsius, while France recorded its hottest June day on record.
Austria, Slovenia and Bosnia issued red alerts for high temperatures, and a number of countries including Germany, Italy and Portugal are also experiencing scorching summers.
However, air conditioning is still not widely used in Europe.
CNN data shows that only about 20 percent of households have air conditioning systems.
In the UK, the figure is only 5 percent, while in Germany the figure is below 3 percent.
A combination of structural and economic barriers, including a high proportion of rental housing, high electricity costs, and deeply ingrained sustainability values, has meant that air conditioning has long been absent from European homes.
A typical 1.5 horsepower (commonly known as PK in Indonesia) AC unit sells for 600-800 euros (1 euro = Rp18,960) in Germany, but installation can cost more than 1,500 euros if labor, permits, and building approvals are included.
Tenants also need the landlord's approval and may have to move the unit when they move out.
High energy costs are another barrier. For example, in Berlin, electricity costs around 0.30 to 0.40 euros per kilowatt-hour.
Running the air conditioner continuously during July and August can cause household electricity bills to balloon to over 200 euros.
Aging residential buildings in Europe add another layer of complexity. Many buildings lack installed ductwork, and in historic areas, outdoor air conditioning units are often prohibited to protect the building's appearance.
However, that history may be beginning to change. Persistent high temperatures, combined with growing concerns about health risks, are beginning to erode long-standing environmental and cultural resistance.
