Energy saving measures recently approved by the Spanish government began to take effect this Wednesday, focusing on thermostat and lighting regulations. Across Europe, similar steps are being prepared as gas supplies tighten amid Russia’s isolation. These policies shape the current approach to energy efficiency in the European Union and its member states.
France to cut hot water in public buildings
What follows are recommendations more than mandates. Paris aims to cut overall power use by about 10% over the next two years compared to 2019, prioritizing efficiency in the public sector while guiding businesses and households. On October 6, an energy sourcing plan was unveiled that would curtail hot water in public buildings, excluding showers. Heating will be capped at 19ºC, with a potential drop to 18ºC during periods of strain. Telecommunication compensation for civil servants could rise by 15% as part of the package.
The Macron administration also approved a legal framework allowing municipalities to restrict lighting and to push for lower heating during nighttime hours in gyms and sports facilities. Companies will be advised to adopt these practices but not legally compelled. Individuals are encouraged to share rides, and the government plans to offer a one-time 100 euro incentive to citizens who participate in a new carpooling program.
Italy will be more lenient in warmer regions
In September, Italy’s Ministry for Ecological Transition introduced an energy saving plan with an aim to reduce natural gas use by 5.3 billion cubic meters through March 2023. The reduction is to be achieved through a mix of measures spanning homes, businesses, and electricity production using fossil fuels and alternative fuels. Environmental observers note the plan’s approach raises questions in terms of long-term environmental impact.
The plan outlines regionally targeted measures. The country is divided into six zones, with the warmest areas facing stringent reductions while cooler regions may retain heating for longer periods, including up to about 13 hours per day in some cases. In the northern Alps and Apennines, heating use in hospitals and healthcare facilities will have fewer time constraints, reflecting regional climate needs.
England stands out
The UK government has chosen a different path, resisting broad, uniform energy-saving advice for citizens. Prime Minister Liz Truss vetoed a government campaign estimated at 15 million pounds intended to promote energy saving through radio, TV, press, and online channels by climate advisors. The proposal, supported by the business minister, Jacob Rees-Mogg, aimed to cut about 300 pounds (roughly 342 euros) from the average home energy bill annually. Messages suggested turning down thermostat settings, turning off radiators in empty rooms, and switching off heating when leaving the house. The decision drew criticism from various quarters, including within the governing party, though some local authorities and private firms have begun independent conservation efforts.
Germany emphasizes heating and lighting
The German government, led by the Ministry for Economy and Climate Action, has urged both citizens and businesses to reduce energy use in public administration and the private sector. A set of winter regulations has been enacted to enforce savings, including prohibiting the heating of private pools and limiting indoor temperatures in public buildings to 19 degrees Celsius. Rooms used for transit or non-essential heating are restricted, and hot bath water in public facilities is reduced to essentials only. Night-time lighting in monuments and non-residential spaces is largely restricted, with many advertising and commercial displays turned off after dark. The initial validity of these decrees stretches to February 28, 2023, with ongoing evaluations as the situation evolves.
Despite these efforts, data from the Federal Grid Agency indicates that gas consumption by households and businesses in late September exceeded the previous year’s monthly average by more than 14%, underscoring the persistent pressure on energy supplies.