Spain’s leader has proposed an energy-saving move that many men have already accepted.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has asked government officials and those working in the private sector to save energy by wearing neckties to work.
Appearing at a news conference in an open-necked white shirt and blue jacket, Sanchez explained that he dressed formally not for Friday custom but to prevent the use of utility—possibly air— conditioning, but he didn’t tell .
“I want you to note that I am not wearing a tie. This means we can all save from an energy point of view,” the prime minister said at the convened press conference to summarize his government’s annual performance .
He said he encouraged his ministers and public officials, “if not necessary, not to use a tie.”
It has been more than a month in Spain, with temperatures often exceeding 40 °C (104 °F) in some parts of the country. The government has urged people to reduce the cost of electricity by not overusing air conditioning.
Rising energy costs for homes and businesses in Spain have been a major issue in recent months, especially since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February. Sanchez said the government would introduce a new energy-saving plan next week, but did not provide any details.
He said the plan was designed to cut utility bills and reduce energy dependence on “aggressive, (Russian President Vladimir) Putin”.
In June, Spain approved more than 9 billion euros ($9.2 billion) of economic relief measures, including a cut in electricity taxes and a one-time payment of 200 euros ($200) for low-income people.
