High temperatures, blackouts fuel demand for cooling devices

By Admin 24 Apr 2023

DMG Newsroom
24 April 2023, Sittwe

Demand for rechargeable fans and solar-powered household items has increased in Arakan State lately due to high temperatures accompanied by daily power outages.

More broadly, demand for solar systems, air coolers, air conditioners, rechargeable fans, inverters, and batteries has been on the increase, according to electronics shops.

Electric and rechargeable fans are even out of stock at many retailers, said Daw Myint Myint Khaing, the owner of Asia Takun electronics shop in Sittwe.

“The demand for fans is higher this year compared with last year. Lately, around 15 rechargeable fans have sold per day. We are sold out of rechargeable fans and have had to order new stocks,” said Daw Myint Myint Khaing.

The price of an electric fan has increased from 20,000 kyats to 25,000 kyats and rechargeable fans have increased from 65,000 kyats to 75,000 kyats.

The price of an 180-watt solar panel has also increased, from 225,000 kyats to 255,000 kyats, and prices have also risen from an average of 10,000 kyats to 20,000 kyats for batteries and inverters.

“Solar panels, batteries, rechargeable fans, and air coolers are selling due to frequent blackouts. Because of the irregular electricity supply and intense heat, most people buy rechargeable fans,” said U Htet Zin Tun, the owner of Lucky Electronic in Kyaukphyu.

Currently, Arakan State suffers from near-daily blackouts that last for around six hours a day.

The irregular power supply and high temperatures are disrupting daily life for people, said Daw Saw Khin Aye, owner of the Khaing Htoo air ticketing agent in Sittwe.

“We can’t sleep at night due to the high temperatures. And we can’t work well either,” said Daw Saw Khin Aye.

Daytime temperatures have regularly approached to 40℃ in parts of Arakan State, up from an average of 34℃ historically. Temperatures are forecast to increase further in the weeks ahead.

Elderly persons, children, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, obese people and those with chronic health conditions are more vulnerable to heat-related illness, according to the Health Department.

A 60-year-old man reportedly died of heatstroke in Mrauk-U on April 22.