Paris Eiffel Tower to go dark earlier as Russia tightens energy screws on Europe
- Paris will start switching off the ornamental lights that grace city monuments hours earlier than usual
- Around Europe, countries are looking to cut energy consumption as Russia reduces natural gas supplies
Lights on the Eiffel Tower will soon be turned off more than an hour earlier at night to save electricity, the Paris mayor announced on Tuesday, as Russia’s war in Ukraine deepens an energy crisis in Europe.
Mayor Anne Hidalgo said the iconic tower that is normally illuminated until 1am is only one of the city’s monuments and municipal buildings that will be plunged into darkness earlier in the evening as the French capital – like the rest of France and Europe – faces risks of power shortages, rationing and blackouts when energy demand surges this winter.
Russia has reduced natural gas supplies to several European countries as they support Ukraine, sending prices for gas and electricity surging.
It’s fuelled inflation and raised fears about shrinking supplies as the heating season draws near, forcing countries to enact conservation measures and relief for consumers and businesses.
While some European companies have reduced or halted production as energy prices surge, the European Union is looking to pass proposals to ease the crisis.
Lights on the Eiffel Tower will be turned off after the last visitor leaves at 11.45pm, starting on September 23, Hidalgo said. Other landmarks operated by the city, such as Saint-Jacques tower and City Hall, will be turned off at 10pm.