Congress endorses the energy saving decree with a comfortable majority

MADRID, 25 Ago. (EUROPA PRESS) -

The Plenary Session of Congress has endorsed this Thursday with a large majority (187 votes in favor) the decree law that includes the energy saving plan with the first measures aimed at reducing gas consumption to fulfill the voluntary commitment acquired with the European Union before a possible supply cut by Russia.

The decree has been validated with the votes of the PSOE, United We Can, Esquerra Republicana, the PNV, EH-Bildu, the PDeCAT, Más País-Equo, Compromís, Teruel Exists and the PRC. On the contrary, the PP, Vox, Ciudadanos, Junts, the CUP and Foro Asturias have voted against, while the BNG has abstained.

The Congress has also approved the processing of the decree as a bill, so that the groups will be able to present amendments to try to introduce modifications, as the PSOE has promised. The agreement with its partners provides for a maximum period of one month to submit amendments, so the rule could be approved in October.

The energy saving plan limits the heating and cooling temperature to 19 and 27 degrees Celsius, respectively, in public administration buildings, commercial establishments such as department stores or shopping centres, cultural spaces or transport infrastructures such as stations or airports. The norm excludes hospitals, educational centers, gyms, hairdressers or restaurant kitchens.

Likewise, it is forced to turn off the lights of shop windows and unoccupied public buildings from 10:00 p.m. and it is forced that before September 30 both buildings and premises have automatic closures in the access doors to prevent them from being permanently open. .

The rule also includes measures to promote public rail transport, such as a 100% discount on Cercanías, Rodalíes and Media Distancia trips, aid for the transport sector or a supplement of 100 euros in scholarships for study.