A record-breaking heatwave is sweeping across Europe, forcing millions to cope with extreme temperatures, especially at night. Unlike the US, where air conditioning is common, European homes rarely have AC, leading to concerns about public health. High energy costs, older building designs, and regulatory hurdles hinder wider AC adoption. While demand is rising, experts warn of the environmental impact of increased energy consumption from AC units, urging efficient cooling systems and alternative strategies to mitigate climate change.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.