Sustainable Cooling in Cities is a five-year (2025–2029) collaborative project carried out under the Technology Collaboration Programs (TCPs) on Energy in Buildings & Communities (EBC) and Cities. The Annex integrates technological innovation, climate-responsive urban design, and forward-looking policy to develop climate-resilient cooling solutions at both building and city scale.

As extreme heat and the urban heat island effect intensify, effective cooling strategies are essential for protecting public health, improving energy efficiency, and strengthening urban resilience. Annex 97 examines how outdoor heat mitigation and building-level cooling interact, providing cities with a deeper understanding of which measures work, under which conditions, and how they can be combined most effectively.

A key aim of the project is to translate this knowledge into actionable guidance for municipalities, planners, and policymakers. Through interdisciplinary research, real-world testing, and international collaboration, Annex 97 supports cities in implementing sustainable cooling solutions that enhance comfort, reduce emissions, and improve overall quality of life.