The Long Pavilion, for instance, which houses the main lobby, is positioned to catch the prevailing winds, so it stays cool without air-conditioning.

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Also, the test is done without air-conditioning, which reduces fuel economy, and without any popular options that add weight to vehicles, thereby making them less efficient.

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Basildon was chosen by NYSE Euronext in part because the site, once planned as a distribution warehouse for an air-conditioning firm, offered proximity to London without flooding risk or being on flight paths.

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The hospital can operate only "on a first-aid basis, " as the staff works without air conditioning or lights to care for about 250 patients, she said.

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In July, a trainload of Metro-North passengers was stranded for about an hour without water or air conditioning near Westport, Conn.

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