France pledges 130 mn euros to cool schools

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PARIS: France has announced a 130 million euro investment to install cooling systems in schools and nurseries to combat extreme heatwaves. This initiative addresses critical issues as many current facilities are unequipped to handle rising temperatures and extreme heat.

State-owned utility EDF is contributing 80 million euros to provide over 100,000 cooling items, such as fans and air conditioning units, to 10,000 establishments by September. Additionally, lenders, including Banque Postale and Banque des Territoires, are earmarking 50 million euros to adapt 12,500 schools.

The funding arrives after a record-breaking heatwave forced the closure of thousands of schools across France. Existing classrooms remained sweltering, leading to teacher strikes over ‘unacceptable working conditions’ and difficulties in conducting graduation exams.

Economy Minister Roland Lescure confirmed that initial improvements will begin as early as next week for 2,500 eligible facilities. These measures aim to provide both immediate relief and long-term cooling solutions for the French education system.

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