The Cabinet approved the first package this Monday, introducing urgent measures to boost efficiency and save energy. While most of the savings plan is expected to be implemented by the end of September within the contingency plan drafted by the manager, the commitment to cut 7% of gas demand in alignment with Brussels has already been met. This initial batch of proposals includes turning off shop window lighting and emptying buildings after 10 pm.
This is among the principal steps added to other already announced measures, such as maintaining indoor heating at a maximum of 19 degrees Celsius in winter and at least 27 degrees Celsius in summer for administrative, commercial, and cultural establishments, including cinemas or theatres, as well as entertainment and passenger transport hubs like airports and train stations. The Third Vice President and Minister of Ecological Transition spoke at the press conference held by the Council of Ministers on Monday, confirming these changes. The move was described in a briefing led by Theresa Riveraat the evening session.
The government has set a one-week period from the effective date of this standard to apply these provisions, with a validity through November 1, 2023. In addition, an air-conditioned facility door locking system will be implemented by September 30 and boilers and other thermal installations will undergo a review before December 1, where applicable reviews were last completed in 2021 to prevent exceeding the corresponding energy use limits. This information will be provided via public panels in all affected organizations to explain the measures. The government will maintain flexibility to guarantee safe working conditions or adapt to thermal conditions as needed, though implementation will be monitored by the autonomous communities, in accordance with the Regulation of thermal installations in buildings (RITE).
“This is an unprecedented effort that echoes rationing measures seen in Central and Northern Europe after World War II. It would be a lack of solidarity for a public administrator to refuse to meet commitments made to Europe.” The Community of Madrid responded through a tweet from President Isabel Díaz Ayuso, noting that Madrid would not back down. Her statement warned that the measures could create insecurity and affect tourism and consumption. This stance was reported during the evening briefing.
Make it easy to work remotely
The government also urged companies to facilitate remote work, a lesson drawn from pandemic experiences, to cut travel and energy use in buildings. “We cannot afford to waste any kilowatt-hour of energy,” said Ribera. The administration has updated contract law to align with energy efficiency goals across state, regional, and local levels.
Other measures aim to promote renewable energy self-consumption, streamline procedures for electrical networks, and enable storage within the oldest renewable facilities (RECORE). The Ministry announced a renewable energy tender for November 22, offering 3,300 megawatts for wind and photovoltaic installations. A broad package of actions has been activated to boost energy efficiency and promote electrification across various productive sectors, backed by 350 million in aid.
Sánchez is confident the coalition will reach the generals united.
Odds Cercanías and AVE
Meanwhile, the Council of Ministers confirmed a regulation allowing free Cercanías rail services for the period from September 1 to December 31, targeting frequent Rodalies and Media Distancia users who commute daily. A special four-month subscription will be created, including a 10 euro deposit refundable at term end if more than 16 trips are made (averaging four trips per month). For conventional half-distance and narrow-gauge services, a multi-trip title will be issued with a 20 euro deposit (reflecting lower usage with fewer than three individual tickets on average).
Free Cercanías rate: new four-month pass with a deposit of 10 euros
The plan also provides a 50% discount on AVANT OSP tickets (public service obligation) and allocates funds to balance travel conditions for repeat users regionally. This mirrors similar arrangements for high-speed routes (AVE) linking Madrid with major cities such as Palencia, Zamora, León, Valladolid, Burgos, Ourense, Segovia, and other routes listed in the program. These provisions align with ongoing efforts to modernize transport and support energy-efficient mobility across the region.
Overall, the energy strategy centers on reducing consumption, accelerating the shift toward renewables, and enhancing efficiency across public services, businesses, and transport networks. The measures reflect a coordinated approach between national and regional authorities to address energy security and sustainability goals—while balancing social and economic considerations for residents and visitors alike. The government continues to monitor results and adjust policies as necessary in line with European commitments and local realities. [citation attribution: Ministry statement, 2023; regional reports, 2023; council briefings, 2023]