Germany takes measures to save energy amid gas crisis

BERLIN (AA) - German authorities have started to implement energy-saving measures amid fears that Russia might stop gas deliveries to Europe.

In the German capital Berlin, authorities announced that around 200 historical monuments and landmarks will no longer be illuminated at night, including the Victory Column, the Berlin Cathedral and the Charlottenburg Palace.

In the southern city of Munich, mayor Dieter Reiter ordered hot water to be turned off in administrative buildings, and limited the maximum heating temperature to 19 degrees Celsius during the upcoming winter months.

He also asked local authorities not to heat corridors and little-used rooms in administrative buildings.

Meanwhile, the city of Hanover has announced that it will no longer heat swimming pools with gas, and hot water will be turned off in the showers of city-run swimming pools and leisure centers.

EU member states have agreed to reduce their gas demand by 15% compared to their average consumption in the past five years, between Aug. 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023.