These European countries have a new rule for ACs

Europe is grappling with one of the toughest summers. The temperature has crossed 40 degree celsius in several countries. To deal with scorching summer and skyrocketing energy prices, Spain has issued a decree in the official state gazette (scheduled to go into effect next week) which mandates that air conditioning (ACs) in public places be set at or above 27 degrees celsius and that doors of those buildings remain closed to save energy. These public places include offices, shops, bars, theaters, airports and train stations. The decree has also been extended to all Spanish households, but as a recommendation.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has stated publicly that the country urgently needs to save energy. He went on to state that he has urged public and private sector employees to avoid wearing ties to stay cool. “As you can see, I’m not wearing a tie,” he told reporters. “I’ve asked ministers and public and private sector bosses not to wear ties unless it’s necessary. That way we can save energy, which is so necessary in our country,” Sanchez said during a press conference.
Not the first country to bring the AC rule
Incidentally, Spain is not the first country to come with such a ruling. Greece and Italy announced similar measures last month. In June, Greece announced “operation thermostat” that aims to reduce energy consumption by 10% this year. The measures reportedly include ACs being set at no less than 27 degrees and window shields being installed in public buildings. Employees have also been asked to make sure that they switch off computers after working hours. Italy too has announced rules to bring down energy consumption that includes similar temperature settings for ACs at public places France and Germany have also announced a slew of measures to cut energy usage.