Spain launches new set of energy-saving measures

Spanish offices, stores and hospitality venues will no longer be allowed to set their cooling systems below 27 degrees Celsius  in summer nor raise heating above 19ºC in the winter under a new set of energy-saving measures approved by the government.

Shops will also be obliged to keep doors closed and heating systems must be checked more often to increase efficiency under the new measures.

The measures include switching off store window lights after 10pm.Street lighting will not be affected.The government passed the bill as part of a bid to reduce the country's gas consumption by 7% in line with the recent European Union energy agreements to limit dependency on Russian gas. The measures would initially be maintained until November 2023.Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the new package last week.Spanish public institutions already operate similar energy-saving regulations.The government says the measures will not only save energy but will also bring down bills for households and businesses.