Comment Noisy and large and expensive (Score 3, Interesting) 110
Let's also address the issue of European dwelling construction and comfort: They are designed to absorb heat and minimize drafts - which is terrible for old-school AC's that try to cool the air as quickly as possible - creating cold clamy moist air. I've been in one such home with a Big old oversized AC. It is just gross. Modern units, like the technology mentioned above, deal with this "Stagnant" air perfectly by removing moisture form the air(by modulating the compressor to a lower setting and lower fan speed over a longer duration). This enhances comfort much more than simply lowering temperature and is ideal for those people who keep the place sealed tight.
Someone posted a chart which claims China is the largest producer of greenhouse gasses. If that is true, then I have to say at least China is making amends in a way with the new affordable and efficient HVAC technology. So, Europeans, I love you, but don't mock progress, give it a try, figure out a way to make it work - the only limit to this is yourselves!