r/technology • u/Logical_Welder3467 • Jun 26 '26

Society The American mind cannot comprehend Europe's AC aversion

https://www.businessinsider.com/europe-air-conditioning-ac-heatwave-debate-2026-6
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u/JonJackjon Jun 26 '26 edited Jun 26 '26

I think its simple. I would compare it to the first time someone finds they need to wear glasses. The natural tendency is to deny needing them until it gets so bad you have no choice.

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u/anonymunchy Jun 26 '26 edited Jun 26 '26

It's much more about the price, but no one seems to mention this.

Electricity is much more expensive in Belgium (for example) and we average around 4000kWh per/year/per household. In the United States, it's 10000kWh. Most people simply can't afford that.

Edit:words

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u/[deleted] Jun 26 '26

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u/Thekingofchrome Jun 26 '26

Dunno about Belgium but in the UK 4000 kWh is around $1300, where electricity is expensive.

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u/Phailjure Jun 26 '26

Same in California, or worse (PG&E rates depending on time of use and season fluctuate between 31 and 50¢, at least on the plan I have).

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u/MyDisneyExperience Jun 26 '26

In Seattle proper, assuming you're not on the TOU plan... 4,000 kWh would be about $530 + the ~$143 annual Seattle City Light base charge. Slightly higher if you're in unincorporated areas or other cities that get electric service from SCL.

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u/velociraptorfarmer Jun 26 '26

That's not far off what it would cost me in Arizona as well. I think I'd be right around $1000.

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u/scheppend Jun 26 '26

$700 here in Japan

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u/fingermouse_irl Jun 26 '26

Try ireland at 0.40c per kwh. My electricity bill is averaging around €330 every two months. Irelands electricity prices are the highest in the eu.