Germany takes energy-saving measures: Heating cold and low water for washing hands in public buildings | Economie

We do not want temperature measurements in bedrooms and individual freedom should be prioritized, but measures should invite families to take responsibility. “They should also do their part to reduce energy consumption,” says German Economy Minister Robert Habeck.

Government services want to lead by example. Heating in government and public buildings will be capped at 19 degrees from September 1. In places where employees perform physically intensive work, heating is limited to 12 degrees. In public areas of buildings, such as hallways, the heating will be turned off completely and there will be no more hot water for hand washing.

In the private sector, the minimum temperatures that companies usually have to adhere to will be lowered. With this, the government wants to encourage private companies to make an effort as well. Hospitals and social institutions are exempt from these measures.

These measures should result in a 2% savings in gas consumption in Germany. “This means we still have a long way to go,” Habek says. According to experts, if Europe’s largest economy wants to escape from the gas shortage this winter, consumption must be reduced by 20 percent. “We will not provide enough gas without the public participation of companies and residents,” the minister said.

The government has also taken other measures. For example, shops are no longer allowed to leave their doors open when the shop is heated and building lights are turned off at night, just like illuminated advertisements. Heating of private swimming pools will also be prohibited from September 1 if it is done with electricity and gas taken from the public network.