France to mandate turning lights off at night to save energy

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FOX News:

Paris is famous for its bright lights, but French President Francois Hollande and his energy minister plan to extinguish the city’s trademark glow during overnight hours, in an effort to save money and energy -- putting many business owners and tourists in a dark mood.

 

According to a recent Bloomberg.com report, by summer of 2013, tourists looking to stroll down the renowned Champs Elysees will need a flashlight between the hours of 1 a.m. and 7 a.m.

 

French energy and environment minister Delphine Batho said the proposal to turn out the lights in and outside public buildings, offices and shops will apply to all French cities, villages, and towns. The purpose is to save energy and money, and show “sobriety,” Batho said.

 

The move is part of efforts to boost France's energy efficiency by 20 percent by 2020. The plan’s first phase took effect last July, forcing stores and businesses to turn off neon lights highlighting their names, between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m.

 

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