Lose the necktie to save energy, Spanish premier advises nation

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

ANKARA (AA) – Spain’s prime minister has come up with a rather unique proposal to save energy – ditching the necktie.

“I would like you to note that I am not wearing a tie. That means that we can all save from an energy point of view,” Pedro Sanchez said at a news conference.

His words may come across as sartorial advice, but they were more likely intended to be a way to reduce cooling costs, although Sanchez did not elaborate any further.

The premier, however, did say that he has asked ministers and other public officials to “not wear a tie, if it is not necessary,” and extending the same appeal to the private sector.

Spain has been baking in sweltering heat this summer, with temperatures breaching 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in several parts.

The government, wary of the energy and economic crisis sparked by the Ukraine war, has been urging citizens to cut electricity costs by reducing the use of air conditioning.

Sanchez said a set of measures aimed at promoting “efficiency and energy saving” will be unveiled next Monday.

Last week, Spain rejected the European Commission’s demand for EU states to slash natural gas use by 15% by next spring, decrying the lack of debate and transparency around a plan driven by a fear of Russia cutting supply to the bloc.​​​​​​​