In anticipation of the new heating season, which is accompanied by a sharp increase in the price of electricity and natural gas caused by Russia's aggressive war in Ukraine, the Presidential Chancery is implementing an energy-saving and heat-saving plan at the Riga Castle and Jūrmala Residence.
The Riga Castle and Jūrmala Residence have a maximum air temperature of 19º C in the working areas, as well as automatic switch-off of the electricity supply outside the working hours of the institution and on the weekends. A gradual transition to LED lighting in the work and representation rooms is also nearing completion. Meanwhile, the temperature in the representation halls of the Riga Castle is constantly maintained low, which is raised to 19º C during events.
A more noticeable decision for the public is not to switch on the decorative lighting of the Riga Castle facade and in the garden during the dark hours of the day, including the Riga Castle Holy Spirit Tower and the Three Star Tower. Riga Castle will be illuminated on Lāčplesis Day, 11 November, the centenary of the institution of the President of the Republic of Latvia, 14 November, and 18 November, the Proclamation Day of the Republic of Latvia.
This autumn, the Chancery of the President of Latvia has refused to host the protocol National holiday reception at the Riga Castle, which is usually held on 17 November. The reception will be combined with a holiday concert at the Latvian National Theatre on 18 November. Also there are no plans to decorate Riga Castle during Christmas period.
Given that the heating and electricity costs for the President's Office have tripled, this plan is expected to save financial resources.