Russian gas crisis: what are European countries doing to save energy?

theguardian.com:

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.

Cities in Germany are switching off spotlights on public monuments, turning off fountains, and imposing cold showers on municipal swimming pools and sports halls. On Wednesday, Hanover became the first large city to announce energy-saving measures. Municipal buildings in the Lower Saxony state capital will only be heated from 1 October-31 March, at no more than 20C (68F) room temperature, and the use of mobile air-conditioning units and fan heaters is being banned.

In June,Greece unveiled “operation thermostat” with the aim of reducing energy consumption by 10% this year and 30% by 2030. Measures include air conditioners being set at no less than 27C in summer and window shields being installed in public buildings. Employees have also been urged to ensure that computers are switched off after working