Ten questions concerning residential overheating in Central and Northern Europe

• DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2023.110154
• Publication Date: 2023-03-02T07:36:25Z
• Authors: Jonathon Taylor; Robert McLeod; Giorgos Petrou; Christina Hopfe; Anna Mavrogianni; Raúl Castaño-Rosa; Sofie Pelsmakers; Kevin Lomas
• Keywords: Overheating (electricity); Climate protection; Cold climate

Rising global temperatures and more frequent heatwaves due to climate change have led a growing body of research increased policy focus on how protect against the adverse effects heat. In cold temperate Europe, dwellings traditionally been designed for protection rather than heat mitigation. There is, therefore, need understand mechanisms through which indoor overheating can occur, its occupants energy consumption, we design, adapt, operate buildings during warm weather improve thermal comfort reduce cooling consumption. This paper brings together experts in from across Europe explore 10 key questions about causes risks residential settings Central Northern including way define measure overheating, impacts, social implications. The is not summarising literature, but identifying evidence, challenges misconceptions, limitations current knowledge. Looking ahead, outline actions needed (re)design dwellings, neighbourhoods, population responses heat, potential shape these actions. doing so, illustrate adaptation multi-faceted challenge that requires urgent coordinated action at multiple levels, with feasible solutions clear benefits health energy.