– Power grids in cities are being strained by increased cooling demand and other climate change impacts, according to the IEA.
– The demand for cooling is projected to double by 2030 and then again by 2050, with most of it in urban areas.
– Cities account for three-quarters of global energy consumption and need to adapt their power grids rapidly to manage current constraints and future challenges.
A recent report from the IEA highlighted the strain that increased cooling demand and other climate change impacts are placing on power grids in cities around the world. As the demand for cooling continues to rise due to hotter temperatures and rapid urbanization, grid modernization and digitalization are necessary for sustainable urban futures.
The installed capacity of space cooling equipment is projected to almost double by 2030 and double again by 2050, with a significant portion in urban areas. This surge in demand for cooling, particularly in cities like China where air conditioner sales are rapidly increasing, is driving up peak electricity demand.
Extreme temperatures and intense storms are already negatively impacting around 70% of cities, pushing power infrastructure to its limits. With the transition to renewable energies and electrification of various sectors, grids will need to become smarter to handle the increased energy consumption in urban areas.
Efficient grid management is crucial to address urban energy challenges as cities account for the majority of global energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The report emphasizes the need for a significant increase in investment in grids and highlights the importance of leveraging connected technologies to optimize energy assets at various levels.
The report also underscores the barriers to maximizing the use of data for energy and climate goals in urban areas, suggesting that international collaboration could help overcome these obstacles. Policymakers are urged to focus on people-centered approaches, data-driven planning, fostering supportive environments, and strengthening international cooperation to address the energy challenges faced by urban areas.