Heat-reflective 'cool roof' paint cuts summer power bills for vulnerable Seoul households
The Seoul Metropolitan Government said a pilot program applying heat-reflective "cool roof" paint to 152 buildings housing older adults, low-income families and other vulnerable residents produced clear results this summer, cutting August electricity bills by up to 40 percent compared with a year earlier and lowering rooftop surface temperatures by more than 10 degrees Celsius. "I was worried…
Seoul's government launched a pilot program in April applying heat-reflective cool roof paint to 152 buildings in priority districts, home to older adults, low-income families, and other vulnerable residents. The program yielded significant results this summer, slashing August electricity bills by up to 40% compared to the previous year.
Rooftop temperatures also dropped by more than 10 degrees Celsius. Residents expressed relief, reporting cooler indoor temperatures and reduced electricity costs. One resident noted a 50,000 won ($36) reduction in their bill compared to last summer. The coating proved effective in stopping leaks, with one homeowner crediting it for making their house livable again.
The city's initiative targeted aging, low-rise residential areas with poor insulation and limited repair access. Program participants expressed hope for expansion to benefit more elderly residents and those in need.
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