Energy ministers from the 27 EU member states, except Hungary, backed a voluntary 15% reduction in gas usage over the winter this week – a target that could become mandatory if the Kremlin ordered a complete shutdown of gas to Europe. Some are already taking steps to cut consumption.
In France, air-conditioned shops have been told to keep their doors shut or risk a fine of €750 (£635). They have also agreed a plan under which they will switch off illuminated signs “as soon as the store closes” and “systematically reduce lighting intensity” by reducing lighting levels in shops. Illuminated advertising has been banned between 1am and 6am everywhere except in railway stations and airports. Public premises will also be required to set thermostats higher in summer and lower in winter, while the public will be expected to turn off wifi routers and televisions when they are away and switch off lights in rooms they are not using.
