The country where fines will be imposed if lights are left on for too long. "Moderation needs to become a habit"
In a European country, stores will face fines if their owners leave lights on for too long.
French authorities have unveiled a set of measures aimed at maintaining a downward trajectory in energy consumption.
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These measures include subsidies for the installation of smart thermostats in households and restrictions on the operating hours of lighting installations in stores, according to reports from Bloomberg and Agerpres.
The recently announced measures are a continuation of a broader plan launched last year to reduce the use of heating systems and the electricity consumption in both the public and private sectors. This was initiated after Russia reduced gas deliveries to Europe, and the operation of nuclear reactors in France was impacted by extended shutdowns.
Even though energy prices have decreased compared to the record levels reached last year, Europe still faces high electricity bills as it intensifies its efforts to combat climate change.
Plan of measures
According to the Minister of Energy Transition, Agnes Pannier-Runacher, France's combined consumption of electricity and natural gas has decreased by approximately 12% compared to the pre-crisis level, surpassing the initial target of a 10% reduction by 2024.
"My goal is for this reduction to become structural. Moderation needs to become a habit", said Agnes Pannier-Runacher in an interview with multiple publications on October 12.
The French government will provide subsidies covering up to 80% of the cost of a so-called "smart thermostat" in homes, which can cost up to 1,000 euros, Pannier-Runacher explained.
Six energy providers, including the state-owned Electricite de France SA, will offer supply contracts that reward customers for reducing their energy consumption, she added.
A law regulating operating hours for lighting installations in shop windows and commercial properties will become stricter, and those who violate the provisions will face fines of up to 1,500 euros, said the Minister of Energy Transition.
Additionally, the French government, which already offers subsidies for car-sharing, will introduce new tax reductions for companies that help their employees commute to work by bicycle.
Oil consumption must continue to decrease, after declining by less than 2% last year, Pannier-Runacher noted.
