Controlling the temperature of heating

Whilst on a homestay in Beijing, I learned that the Chinese government turns the central heating of buildings on and off before and after winter. I thought this was the only heating and that people sometimes were too cold if winter comes early because the government starts the heating on set dates, usually mid November and stops mid March. A little research gave me more information, this heating is a free or subsidised service provided and residents are able to supplement this heating (at their own cost) with their own devices, they are not banned/controlled. I think some people have a problem with being too hot rather that too cold.

For a long time I thought this was a unique Chinese situation. Western governments set building standards to improve their liveability, energy efficiency, but I had never heard of a government controlling the heating in any way. Until moving to France last year that is, the French government has mandated offices to have heating set to a maximum of 19C (66F), and encourages everyone to do the same in their homes. Although the energy transition minister has stated “There will not be such thing as a temperature police”.

He also said “The watchword is clear: general mobilisation,” at a press conference announcing a energy saving plan which aims to reduce energy consumption by 10% by 2024.

This sounds a bit like a Chinese government to me :-) and in this case, I think it is a valid position to take, every little bit helps to reduce fossil fuel use/carbon generation, whilst still letting people have a quality of life and not freezing.