The Government has published a plan with 73 structural measures to save energy and make it more efficient; impulse the energy transition; and protect vulnerable consumers, homes and businesses.
The object is, in solidarity with the rest of the EU, is to reduce the consumption of natural gas by between 5.1% and 13.5% between August this year and March of next year.
Spain has already committed to a reduction of gas demand by at least 6.4% but, currently, the major obstacle to this objective is that it is principally gas that is used to produce electricity.
In January the Government will begin to lay the structure for a more flexible electricity network integrating more renewable energy and foresees a “steep increase in the use of wind and solar energy.”
There will also be increased EU funds for energy self- sufficiency for homes and businesses although no details are currently available.
The “Bono Social” will be extended to more homes and new tax rebates will be introduced for making homes more energy efficient.
The Government is also committed to reducing bills this winter for the 1.6 million homes with community heating systems, although, again, no details are currently available.
Plans to encourage consumers to save energy include a mechanism where it will be possible to compare your energy consumption with neighbours and the rest of the local population where you live plus individual advice from energy companies for consumers about how to save energy.
There will be a technical revision of all public street lighting whether it is the responsibility of the region or central government.
The level of energy consumption and energy savings will be published monthly by regions and by central government.
As details emerge Nexonr will keep readers informed.
