The Italian government has introduced a number of measures aimed at curbing electricity consumption this winter amid soaring gas prices and fears of more disruptions.

Rome, September 9 (RHC)-- The Italian government has introduced a number of measures aimed at curbing electricity consumption this winter amid soaring gas prices and fears of more disruptions.

Italy relies on natural gas for 40% of its electricity production.  Earlier this week, Roberto Cingolani, the minister for the ecological transition, announced energy-saving measures ranging from turning down thermostats in apartment blocks and public buildings by one degree and shortening the time the heating can be on by one hour a day and 15 days across the year.

Hospitals, nursing homes, primary and play schools will be exempt from the energy-saving measures. The policy introduced by the Italian government is part of an EU plan which calls on member states to voluntarily reduce their gas demand by 15% compared to their average consumption in the past five years, between August the first and March the 31st next year. However the gas demand reduction becomes mandatory if supplies reach crisis levels.

There are concerns on how the implementation of energy-saving measures will be monitored by the government.  For now the ministry for the ecological transition has called on individuals to play their part.  It remains to be seen whether this will be enough.