How new cooling technologies could cut AC electricity demand

As temperatures continue to soar, air conditioning has become the go-to solution for staying cool in America's sweltering summers. However, engineers are now seeking innovative ways to keep people comfortable without putting an undue strain on the electricity grid. The urgency is evident: as the need for cooling intensifies, so too does the challenge of using it more efficiently and reducing demand when grids are most taxed.

A recent study suggests that finding ways to cool buildings without solely relying on air conditioning will be crucial in adapting to the impacts of climate change. While air conditioning is widespread in the U.S., its electricity consumption is far from peaking. In fact, higher temperatures are expected to lead to increased AC usage, particularly in northern regions that were previously less reliant on cooling.

The resulting surge in electricity demand during peak hours could exacerbate grid stress. For instance, AC units can make up nearly half of total peak electricity demand on the hottest days in Texas, according to the International Energy Agency. Energy expert Ankit Kalanki warns that saving one kilowatt-hour of energy during off-peak hours is not the same as reducing one kilowatt of peak demand during the evening rush hour when everyone returns from work and turns on their AC.

To address this issue, various approaches are being explored. These include employing smart windows and shading to block solar radiation, using reflective roof coatings, integrating energy storage systems to manage peak demand, and leveraging automation and ventilation to minimize AC usage. In Colorado, researchers are testing a cooling paint on roofs that reflects sunlight and radiates heat into the atmosphere—a more advanced version of traditional white paint.

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, the optimal mix of cooling technologies will depend on factors such as climate, building type, and location. A 2024 study modeled heat-mitigation strategies in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and found that combining cool materials with greenery could reduce peak ambient temperatures by up to 4.5°C.

It's important to note that these technologies do not entirely eliminate the need for air conditioning, which remains vital for saving lives during extreme heat events. Instead, the objective is to reduce how often and intensely the AC units operate. Ultimately, efficiency emerges as the most cost-effective resource, as reducing energy demand can help avoid the need for additional generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure.