Andorra to Assess School Thermal Conditions for Heatwave Vulnerabilities

The Andorran government will conduct a comprehensive assessment of thermal conditions in school buildings to identify the most vulnerable spaces during heatwaves, as outlined by Education Minister Ladislau Baró.

Responding to a written question from Concòrdia councillor Maria Àngels Aché on air conditioning in educational centres, Baró noted that the administration currently lacks a full technical map of facilities, though it tracks issues reported by schools. Last academic year's heat episode highlighted concerns at the Escola Andorrana d'Escaldes-Engordany, where indoor temperatures reached about 32°C in certain classrooms and offices facing the river, due to a greenhouse effect from the building's design.

The ministry has ruled out generalised air conditioning installation, citing high energy consumption and site-specific features. For the 2026-2027 academic year, it will launch indoor temperature monitoring across parishes, analyse trends in extreme heat events, and produce a dedicated heatwave protocol in coordination with Civil Protection. The protocol will cover ventilation, hydration, modified physical activities, use of cooler areas, and family notifications.

Immediate actions will deploy available blinds, curtains, solar protections, fans, or portable coolers where practical, plus enhancements to water access and shaded areas during ongoing renovations. Priority repairs will address the most critical locations.

Consultations will engage Andorra's three education systems, including students, families, staff, parent groups, and socio-educational partners, to review potential changes to the school calendar, timetables, and daily routines. These discussions will consider broader effects on transport, meals, and work-life balance, supported by data analysis.

From 2027, findings will inform a prioritised map of sensitive buildings, guiding medium- and long-term investments in solar protections, ventilation improvements, glazing upgrades, shaded zones, and efficient cooling systems where assessments warrant them. These steps will align with national energy efficiency goals and available funding.