As Europe grapples with high gas prices amid the Ukraine war, European electricity prices hit record highs on Friday.
Electricity prices in Germany touched $995 per megawatt hour while in France they went past 1,100 Euros. Energy regulator Ofgem in the UK also said that it will be increasing electricity and gas price cap almost two-fold from October.
Also Read: European gas prices surge as Russia's latest move causes supply fears
Winter is coming and with it Germany faces the looming threat of an energy shortage. To deal with this threat the nation's government has approved a new bylaw that will turn buildings colder and streets darker.
The law prohibits heating public spaces like town halls and train waiting rooms above 19 degrees Celsius (66.2F). However, social institutions like hospitals are exempted from this rule.
As per Guardian, the legislation will come into force in about a week's time and will remain in place for six months.
During the visit, the chancellor is set to sign a long-term deal to receive green hydrogen from Canada. German carmakers are keen to source minerals for electric vehicle batteries from the North American country.