Soaring temperatures over the summer has led to a significant increase in electricity consumption in Jamaica, as homeowners and business places deploy additional cooling devices such as air conditioners and fans.

The Planning Institute of Jamaica says that electricity sales for the month of July increased by 3.2 per cent over the corresponding period last year.

Overall, electricity consumption increased by 0.6 per cent during the April to June quarter reflecting higher sales to residential and business customers.

The PIOJ is projecting that the higher electricity usage during the summer months, coupled with higher levels of industrial activity, will drive growth in the electricity and water sectors.

Meanwhile, July this year has been confirmed as the warmest month ever recorded worldwide. This was confirmed by satellite data following and assessment carried out by researchers at the EU’s Capernicus Climate Change Service. Scientists say it is the latest sign that earth is experiencing unprecedented warming.