(RightWing.org) – President Joe Biden recently signed an executive order banning the import of Russian crude oil, coal, and liquified natural gas to the US shortly after the country invaded Ukraine. The European Union (EU) remains divided over a complete ban, but the European Commission is working with 17 member states to help them phase out their reliance on Russian energy sources. Italy recently decided to ration energy use in public buildings to help Ukraine.
On Thursday, April 21, The Guardian reported Italy would enact a new energy rationing program for public buildings from May 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023. The “Operation Thermostat” initiative will restrict setting air conditioners lower than 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 Celsius). Similarly, the program prohibits setting heaters higher than 66 degrees Fahrenheit (19 Celsius).
https://twitter.com/backtolife_2022/status/1518209223401816066
The program grants Labor Ministry inspectors the authority to impose fines ranging from roughly $537 to $3,220 (500 to 3,000 Euros).
Italian officials hope the initiative will help the country avoid energy shortages as the EU considers a sixth round of Russian sanctions. EuroNews recently reported Italy imports 38% of the liquified natural gas necessary for its electricity generation from Russia. Italian officials are also working with Angola to increase gas imports from the African nation.
Do you think US officials will consider rationing public energy use if the war in Ukraine drags on indefinitely?
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