Heatwave 2025: adiabatic cooling with EvaPack® System, the green alternative to air conditioning in schools
Heatwave 2025: adiabatic cooling with EvaPack® System, the green alternative to air conditioning in schools
On July 1st, 2025, more than 1,300 French schools were forced to close due to extreme temperatures exceeding 40 °C (104 °F) in several regions. This unprecedented heatwave, combined with a red alert from “Météo-France” (the French national weather service), raises a critical question: how can we cool public buildings sustainably without worsening climate change?
At Devatec, we firmly believe that adiabatic cooling is an effective, economical, and environmentally friendly solution. That’s why our EvaPack® system stands out as a concrete response to today’s thermal challenges, especially in schools, universities, and other public spaces.
Why air conditioning isn’t the right answer anymore ?
For years, mechanical air conditioning has been seen as essential. But today, its limits are clear:
- High energy consumption, with peak loads during heatwaves straining the national power grid.
- Refrigerant gases (HFCs) with a high global warming potential, harmful to the environment.
- Significant maintenance costs, including leak detection, cleaning, and regulatory checks.
- Overly dry air, leading to discomfort, suspended dust particles, and worsened seasonal allergy symptoms, which are already increasing during heat spikes.
Adiabatic and hygienic cooling: a natural, efficient process
The principle is simple: hot air flows through a moistened media. The water evaporates by absorbing heat from the air, naturally lowering its temperature. The result? Cooler, fresher air with a slight touch of humidity.
Key Advantages of EvaPack® Technology:
- Up to 90% energy savings compared to traditional air conditioning systems.
- Zero emissions of HFCs, ammonia or CO₂: conventional cooling systems use refrigerant gases that are powerful greenhouse gases. EvaPack® operates without them, avoiding any indirect contribution to climate change.
- Minimal maintenance: no compressor, no battery—only a media that requires occasional inspection.
- Simple installation in new or existing air handling units (AHUs).
- EvaPack® is compatible with free-cooling strategies and 100% fresh air ventilation systems, similar to those used in data centers. It enables both direct adiabatic cooling (on fresh air) and indirect cooling (via heat exchanger), ensuring optimal thermal stability while significantly reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.
EvaPack® in action: concrete applications
In Lyon, at the Ginko school complex, including the Frida Kahlo and Wangari Maathai schools, an EvaPack® system was installed to provide indirect cooling. This solution was chosen to avoid mechanical air conditioning, considered too energy-intensive and less hygienic, while maintaining optimal comfort for students and staff during extreme heat events.
Another major installation demonstrating the effectiveness of this technology is the CAE in Lille. This 34,000 m² office building, Passivhaus-certified, implemented indirect adiabatic cooling to ensure high energy performance while maintaining occupant comfort, even during extreme heatwaves.
Supporting Local Authorities in Their Climate Strategy
The French National Climate Adaptation Plan (PNACC) and RE2020 regulations (France’s energy and environmental standards for new buildings) promote low-energy cooling solutions in buildings. The EvaPack® system fits perfectly within this framework as a relevant technical response.
- VDI 6022 certified, ensuring high hygiene standards in air treatment.
- GREENGUARD GOLD compliant, guaranteeing ultra-low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions.
- Fast return on investment: under 4 years in most cases.
- Direct reduction in electricity and CO₂ consumption.
Implementing an EvaPack® Project: The Key Steps
A reliable solution to extreme heat
As heatwaves intensify and public buildings strive to remain open while aligning with climate goals, EvaPack® offers a reliable, sustainable, energy-efficient, and hygienic alternative.
A Made in Europe solution, already trusted by several institutions and ready to become the benchmark for hygienic adiabatic cooling in schools and beyond.
Download the EvaPack® Product Brochure
Recent Comments