Germany approves lowering the heating in public buildings to 19 degrees

BERLIN, Aug. 24 (DPA/EP) -

The Government of Germany has agreed that the heating in public buildings be at a maximum of 19 degrees from September, within a battery of measures with which it aspires to reduce energy consumption.

The change regarding heating, which implies a drop of one degree with respect to the temperature that was recommended until now, contemplates that common areas such as corridors, machine rooms or lobbies are not heated.

In addition, it prohibits the night lighting of advertising installations, as well as that of those buildings and monuments that only require lights for aesthetic or corporate image reasons.

The Government of Olaf Scholz also points out to individuals that they will not be able to heat their swimming pools with gas and electricity. Gas supply companies and homeowners must also inform their customers or tenants about the expected energy consumption and possible saving measures.

The Minister of the Economy, Robert Habeck, has underlined the need to advance in "the independence of the Russian energy supply", fearing that the situation will get complicated in the face of next winter. The measures will apply in principle for six months.

"Every contribution counts," added Habeck, who has advocated a "national effort" and the involvement of all social and political actors in Germany.