Romanian mayor goes door-to-door to urge electricity savings, meets practical concerns

In Călărași, a commune in Romania's Dolj county, the local mayor has taken an unconventional approach to energy conservation: knocking on doors. Sorin Sandu, the mayor, has been visiting families house-to-house to explain the importance of reducing electricity usage, opting for direct conversations over traditional public announcements or social media campaigns.

Sandu has advised residents to follow the municipality's example, which includes completely shutting off public lighting between midnight and 5 a.m. While some locals reported already making efforts to save energy by limiting the use of televisions, lights, and appliances, others voiced practical concerns. One resident questioned the feasibility of drastic measures, asking the mayor, "If we unplug the refrigerator, what will we eat?"

This local initiative comes as Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan recently thanked Romanians for their efforts in reducing energy consumption. Bolojan acknowledged those who used energy sparingly, especially during evening hours, and those who contributed to the energy grid through storage systems during peak demand. He emphasized that addressing energy crises requires stable long-term policies, serious investment projects, and a predictable, responsible attitude.

Mayor Sandu's direct engagement highlights the challenges of implementing energy-saving measures at the household level, where individual circumstances and immediate needs can conflict with broader conservation goals. The commune's efforts reflect a grassroots response to a national energy challenge.

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Le recomand să facă ceea ce facem și noi la primărie. Am dispus închiderea totală a energiei electrice publice între 12 noaptea și 5 dimineața.