Understanding the Winter Time Change in 2024
The transition to winter time is set to occur across Europe on the night of October 26 to October 27, 2024. At 3:00 a.m., clocks will be turned back one hour to 2:00 a.m., marking the end of summer time and the beginning of winter time. This shift allows individuals to enjoy an extra hour of sleep, as the change occurs during the night when most people are asleep.
Impact of the Time Change on Energy Consumption
The practice of changing the clocks is rooted in energy conservation efforts initiated during the oil crisis of the 1970s. In Spain, for instance, the Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving (IDAE) suggests that this time change can lead to a reduction in energy consumption by approximately 5%, amounting to savings of around 90 million euros annually for Spanish households. However, the effectiveness of this measure remains a topic of debate, with studies indicating that while lighting savings may be evident, heating costs could potentially increase.
Ongoing Debate Over Daylight Saving Time
The discussion surrounding the necessity of daylight saving time has been ongoing since 2018, when a public consultation by the European Commission revealed that over 80% of participants favored abolishing the practice. Despite this overwhelming support, a lack of consensus among EU member states has delayed any potential changes. Currently, the time change will continue at least until 2026, with the last Sunday in March marking the return to summer time.
