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FEATURE ARTICLE: Rising cooling demand increases the need for gas-fired power generation

12 October 2026 |

Climate change is driving a sustained rise in global temperatures and increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves across many regions. These conditions, which can be further amplified by El Niño events, are increasing the need for cooling and driving up electricity demand, particularly during periods of extreme heat. Cooling already accounts for around 10% of global electricity consumption, with demand spanning residential, commercial and industrial sectors. Beyond providing thermal comfort, air conditioning is increasingly important for protecting public health and supporting economic activity. As cooling demand continues to grow, ensuring reliable electricity supplies during peak periods requires sufficient firm and flexible generation capacity. Gas-fired power generation can help meet this need by providing dispatchable electricity that responds rapidly to fluctuations in demand and supports power-system reliability during periods of extreme heat.

Read the full feature article “Rising cooling demand increases the need for gas-fired power generation”.