“From Luxury to Necessity: The Changing Landscape of Air-Conditioning in America”
Air-conditioning was once considered a luxury in many parts of the world, but that perception is changing rapidly. The Biden administration recently announced a groundbreaking move that allows residents of public housing to request federal assistance to cover their air-conditioning bills during extreme heatwaves. This program, managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, aims to provide relief to over 1.6 million low-income individuals living in public housing who are at risk of suffering from dangerously high temperatures.
While this initiative is a step in the right direction, the need for cooling assistance extends far beyond public housing residents. Millions of Americans struggle to pay their energy bills, and there is no legal requirement for landlords to provide air-conditioning in rental properties. This lack of access to cooling solutions exacerbates the vulnerability of individuals to extreme heat, leading to illness and even death.
Public health experts have identified housing as a key factor contributing to people’s susceptibility to high temperatures. The United States is currently facing a housing crisis, with affordability reaching historic lows and homelessness rates on the rise. The combination of these factors leaves many individuals defenseless against the impacts of heatwaves.
Efforts to address these challenges include updating building codes to require more energy-efficient structures and promoting the use of renewable energy sources to power air-conditioning units. The Biden administration has introduced new energy standards for public housing and federal projects, as well as offering tax credits for home retrofits. However, transforming the housing system to ensure access to cooling solutions will require significant time and investment.
Mark Wolfe, from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association, emphasizes the importance of developing a comprehensive strategy to assist low-income families with energy bills and improve the energy efficiency of housing stock. Despite these efforts, funding for programs supporting low-income households has been reduced, leaving millions of households struggling to pay their bills.
The impact of the housing crisis on vulnerability to heat-related illnesses is evident in regions like Maricopa County, where heat-related deaths have surged among homeless individuals. Homelessness significantly increases the risk of heat-related fatalities, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to protect vulnerable populations.
As extreme heat events become more frequent and severe, innovative approaches are emerging to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures. Practical solutions, such as apps to locate cooling centers, insurance policies for workers during heatwaves, and local regulations ensuring access to water and shade for outdoor workers, are being implemented to safeguard those most at risk.
The urgency of adapting to the new challenges posed by extreme heat is underscored by recent incidents of heat-related deaths worldwide. From religious pilgrims to tourists and election workers, individuals are succumbing to the impacts of extreme heat, emphasizing the critical need for proactive measures to protect vulnerable populations.