Chileans nix ties to save energy

Chilean authorities have launched a campaign to get workers not to wear ties in the upcoming summer season as part of an effort to curb air conditioning and energy costs.

tie_loosening_111214_B_SBS_607014323


"This is a small measure that we want to promote because it will help with energy efficiency... by reducing the use of air conditioning and leading to overall energy savings," said Energy Minister Rodrigo Alvarez.

The campaign includes television ads with ministers removing their neckwear and encouraging government and private sector workers to do likewise in hot weather, in the hope that this will allow offices to limit the use of air conditioning without too much discomfort.

Officials say the effort could save $10 million in energy costs.

Chile is facing an energy crunch this year due to a drought that has limited its hydroelectric power capacity, while overall electricity use is growing at a seven percent pace.

The South American nation imports virtually all its fossil fuels and is trying to find a way to cope with projected growth in electric power needs of 80 percent in the coming 20 years.



Share

1 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AFP


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Download our apps
SBS News
SBS Audio
SBS On Demand

Listen to our podcasts
An overview of the day's top stories from SBS News
Interviews and feature reports from SBS News
Your daily ten minute finance and business news wrap with SBS Finance Editor Ricardo Gonçalves.
A daily five minute news wrap for English learners and people with disability
Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS
SBS World News

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service
Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world