Denmark Tightens Public Building Temperature to 19°C, Exempts Key Care Facilities

In a move aimed at reducing energy use in the public sector, Denmark is set to lower the standard indoor temperature in public buildings from a typical 21–22 degrees Celsius to 19 degrees. The announcement came from the Minister of Climate, Energy and Supply, who outlined these steps at a press briefing in Copenhagen. The plan also includes turning off exterior lighting for public buildings during non-operational hours to cut electricity consumption and limit carbon emissions. The minister emphasized that interior temperatures would be kept at 19 degrees unless there are clear, justified reasons to maintain a higher level, such as specific medical or operational needs in certain facilities. Hospitals, nursing homes, and kindergartens would be exempt from the new target to ensure safety and comfort for vulnerable populations. This approach aligns with broader efforts to curb energy demand across government facilities and to demonstrate leadership in energy efficiency to the public and international partners.