Albertans sought respite during record-hot July. Spike in electricity use suggests they found AC

**Heat Wave Forces Albertans to Embrace Air Conditioning to Beat Record July Temps**
Albertans endured scorching temperatures during a relentless heat wave that pushed many to seek refuge in air-conditioned spaces. The demand for cooling solutions skyrocketed as residents grappled with the hottest July on record in cities like Edmonton, Calgary, High Level, and Grande Prairie.
Teseo Berardi, service manager at Weiss-Johnson in Edmonton, described the overwhelming influx of calls from people eager to install air conditioning units as soon as possible. The intense heat wave saw temperatures soaring for days on end, with Edmonton experiencing seven consecutive days of 30°C or higher temperatures.
In desperation, some homeowners offered to pay well above the quoted price to jump the queue for installation. Keith Norton of JDK Heating & Cooling shared the tale of a new home reaching a sweltering 37°C without air conditioning, illustrating the dire need for immediate relief.
Alberta’s historic reluctance toward home air conditioning is shifting, with an increasing number of households embracing cooling systems. The province saw a surge in energy consumption during July, setting multiple summer electricity usage records due to the widespread use of air conditioning.
Experts advocate for adjustments to the energy system to accommodate the changing climate, such as harnessing solar power and expanding grid battery storage. The construction industry’s current trends, including designs with big windows and lack of mature trees in new subdivisions, contribute to the challenge of keeping homes cool.
Despite HVAC companies facing overwhelming demand, leading to lengthy waiting lists, technicians are working tirelessly to meet the needs of Albertans seeking relief from the relentless heat wave. The unprecedented circumstances have prompted many residents to finally take the plunge and invest in air conditioning.
With the climate becoming increasingly unpredictable, the shift towards air conditioning in Alberta reflects a broader need for adaptation to changing environmental conditions. The heat wave has left a lasting impact on residents, spurring a collective effort to stay cool and comfortable amidst the record-breaking temperatures.
Reach out to reporter Madeline Smith at madeline.smith@cbc.ca for more insights into how Albertans are coping with the heat wave and embracing air conditioning to beat the summer heat. Follow CBC for the latest updates on weather-related news and tips for staying cool during extreme temperatures.

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