Chile eyes tieless summer, to save energy

Chilean authorities Tuesday launched a campaign to get workers to skip neckties in the upcoming summer season as part of an effort to curb air conditioning and energy costs. "This is a small measure that we want to promote because it will help with energy efficiency... by reducing the use of air conditioning and leading to overall energy savings," said Energy Minister Rodrigo Alvarez. The campaign includes television ads with ministers removing their neckwear and encouraging government and private sector workers to do likewise in hot weather, in the hope that this will allow offices to limit the use of air conditioning without too much discomfort. Officials say the effort could save $10 million in energy costs. Chile is facing an energy crunch this year due to a drought that has limited its hydroelectric power capacity, while overall electricity use is growing at a seven percent pace. The South American nation imports virtually all its fossil fuels and is trying to find a way to cope with projected growth in electric power needs of 80 percent in the coming 20 years.