Germany’s federal government has unveiled a plan to enforce automatic heating reductions in public buildings, capping indoor temperatures at a maximum of 19 degrees Celsius starting in September. The goal is to curb energy use across government facilities through a structured series of measures that prioritize efficiency without compromising essential comfort in public spaces.
The policy includes a move to reduce heating by one degree in areas that are typically considered non-critical for occupancy, such as corridors, machine rooms, and lobbies. These spaces will be treated as unheated zones to minimize energy waste while still safeguarding core public functions and safety protocols.
Additionally, the government is restricting night lighting for advertising displays and monuments housed within these buildings. Lighting that serves only aesthetic or corporate branding purposes will be curtailed after certain hours to limit unnecessary energy consumption.
Olaf Scholz’s administration emphasizes that individuals will not be allowed to heat pools using gas or electricity within the scope of the new rules. Gas suppliers and landlords are required to inform customers and tenants about expected energy consumption and available conservation measures, promoting transparency and proactive planning during energy-saving campaigns.
Economy Minister Robert Habeck underscored the urgency of reducing dependency on fossil fuels and the potential vulnerabilities tied to external energy supply, particularly as winter approaches. The measures are intended to be in place for an initial period of six months, providing a testbed for broader policy refinement based on results and public acceptance.
A government spokesperson highlighted that every contribution matters in the nationwide effort. The administration has called for broad participation from civil society, business groups, and political actors to support a coordinated and practical response to energy shortages and rising costs.