utilities

Energy measures started

As a measure to streamline power consumption, signs in stores that have closed for the day must be turned off between Sundays and Thursdays, and operated during limited hours the rest of the week.

The Autoridad Nacional de los Servicios Públicos (Asep) issued that resolution after a meeting yesterday to discuss the country's pressing power needs.

Businesses can use illuminated signs Fridays and Saturdays, but they must be shut off between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m.

The resolution exempts some businesses, such as those that provide health services, gas stations and establishments that sell food.

The agency also mandated that air conditioners in government offices need to be turned off one hour before they are closed for the day, and that lights must be turned off in areas that are not being used.

"These energy-saving measures at the national level will allow us to avoid serious energy shortages in the months to come," said the ministro for Asuntos del Canal and president of the Secretaría de Energía, Dani Kuzniecky.

The minister met last month with the Consejo Nacional de la Empresa Privada (Conep) to discuss how energy can be conserved.

But Conep President Severo Sousa said yesterday's announcement was a surprise because no timetable had been discussed for the implementation of the proposed measures.