Keeping buildings cool could be a growing investment opportunity

With Britain facing more frequent periods of extreme heat, there is an increased need to keep homes, offices and public buildings habitable.

Without action, by 2050, 92 per cent of homes are likely to overheat, according to the Climate Change Commission. Rathbones Asset Management says this is creating a compelling investment case in cooling, ventilation and climate-resilient infrastructure.

The UK has historically been slow to adopt air conditioning, but hotter summers are placing greater strain on buildings designed primarily to retain heat.

David Harrison, head of sustainability at Rathbones Asset Management, said: “Air-con and building ventilation are a big global growth area for the coming years.

“Belimo isn’t a name that you will know, but there’s a good chance that you’ve encountered its products if you’ve recently stepped with relief into an air-conditioned shop or office.

“It makes an essential part for commercial HVAC systems that helps regulate the flow and efficiency of the air.

“Belimo’s products are only a small part of a complex process, but they are mission critical to the result.

“Its valves and actuators help keep temperatures steady and can materially improve the efficiency of a building’s air-conditioning system.

“Critically, given the likely increase required in air-con systems, Belimo’s components can make these systems much more efficient.”