By Kate Abnett

BRUSSELS, (Reuters) – Increase the temperature of your air conditioner, adjust the boiler settings and drive slowly. This is some of International Energy Agency’s recommendations on how consumers can reduce their dependence on Russian energy, and lower their monthly bills.

It has been a necessity for climate change to save energy, however the rise in prices of oil and the scramble to decrease dependence on Russian fossilfuels have brought the matter up to political attention.

Paris-based IEA shared a guide with the European Commission that Thursday. It recommended Europeans to work remotely, use share cars and avoid driving Sundays in big cities. They also suggested they bike, take public transport or walk more.

According to the IEA, following the recommended steps could result in a savings of 450 Euros per annum on the annual energy bills of a household within the EU. This is dependent on various factors, such as whether the home or car you own.

It was found that lowering the thermostat to 1C can save 70 Euros on a household’s heating bills. Driving on average 10km per hour faster on motorways will also help you save 60 Euros per year.

According to the IEA, the EU could benefit from the reduction of 220 million barrels per annum of oil, and 17 miliarde cubic metres of natural gas if the actions are implemented.

While the EU of 27 countries has committed to halting Russian fuels in 2027, it is still dependent on Moscow for 26% oil and 40% gas imports. It currently imports approximately 155 billion cubic metres per year.

Russia could cut gas supplies, or the EU would sanction Russian gas. This would require far greater emergency measures in order to lessen the fuel’s use, including factory closings and energy rationing.

Austria and Luxembourg were open to the IEA suggestions, but Claude Turmes (Luxembourg Energy Minister) said that EU-wide action would be required, like lowering speed limits.

Patrick Graichen (Germany’s State Secretary for Economy and Climate), said that “This must be more than voluntary.”

Italy announced Wednesday that it would impose limits on air conditioning temperatures in public buildings. However, few other countries have required citizens to consume less energy. This is even while they are racing to stockpile gas for next winter and prepare for disruptions from Russian energy sources.