Spain has announced new energy-saving measures, including limits on air conditioning and heating temperatures in public and large commercial buildings in a bid to reduce its dependence on Russian oil and gas.
European Union countries are looking to decrease their dependence on Russian oil
The Spanish authorities have decided to implement a new set of energy-saving measures. As per that, the heating in public areas cannot be set above 19 degrees Celsius, and air conditioning cannot be set above 27 degrees Celsius. The order will be implemented in a week’s time. It includes places like public buildings, shopping centers, cinemas, theatres, rail stations, and airports. According to the new order, the institutions will also display signs which explain the new initiatives and their implications.
The ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has resulted in European Union countries looking to decrease their dependence on Russian oil. Hence, this decision can play a huge role.
“[This] lays out a series of measures to save energy and use it more efficiently, which are urgent and necessary when it comes to reducing energy consumption in general and reducing our dependence on energy outside the Spanish economy,” the decree stated.
Madrid isn’t going to switch off: Right Wing leader
While the current measures related to energy consumption will be valid till November 2023, the Spanish government is looking to make this a regular practice. However, it has faced criticism from the opposition parties.
The decree has also suggested public administrations and big companies could encourage people to work from home to save energy on transport and in buildings.
“Madrid isn’t going to switch off,” right-wing leader Isabel Díaz Ayuso said.
“That generates insecurity and scares off tourism and consumption. It brings darkness, poverty, and sadness, even as the government covers up the question of what savings it will apply to itself.”
