Enemalta Chairman Ing. Tranter attributes the latest high rise in power consumption (TMID, 21 June) to the higher use of air-conditioners. From what I have witnessed, I think there is a huge misuse of these units. Most people keep the cooling temperature setting lower than is needed, hence using more energy than necessary to keep a room cool.

Setting the temperature of a unit from 16-23 degrees Celsius wastes a lot of energy. If an air-conditioner is of the right size for the room and working properly, then for sure you cannot be comfortable with a setting of 16-23 degrees Celsius. Faulty units should be repaired and not set at a lower temperature! I would say, if you really need to use an air-conditioner, then a setting of between 25-27 is more than reasonable, if one has any regard for the environment.

I think Enemalta or the government must embark on a campaign to educate users not to misuse these units, because this results in unnecessary seasonal consumption of energy, leading to pollution and costly upgrades of power stations.

A further measure, implemented by some foreign governments and organisations, is to recommend staff to dress down, eg to dispense with jackets and ties, in order to allow a slightly higher temperature in offices. This should help greatly in reducing energy consumption.

Edward Camilleri

Mosta