Authorities in Spain have outlined new plans to reduce the consumption of energy across the country.

According to Reuters, rising fuel prices and an economic downturn have prompted the government to look at ways of saving money.

Industry minister Miguel Sebastian has therefore stated that he wants the country to cut its energy usage by ten per cent over the next two years.

This, he said, could save about €5 million, thereby freeing up funds to be invested in other parts of the economy.

Mr Sebastian commented: “This is going to affect the housing, retail, transport and energy sectors.”

He added that the Spanish government also plans to invest about €1 billion into upgrading the country’s tourism infrastructure.

According to official figures, more than 59 million foreign leisure travellers chose to spend their holiday in Spain last year.

Tags: Spain