The State Council on Tuesday started to solicit public opinions about a draft regulation aimed at reducing energy consumed by China's residential and public buildings.

"The temperature of all China's air-conditioned public rooms should be no lower than 26 degrees centigrade in summer, and no higher than 20 degrees in winter," says the draft regulation.

These rules were put forward by the central government last month and they are now set to be enshrined in a state regulation that is expected to be enforced more effectively through legal means.

The regulation will promote energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy, such as solar energy, in the management of commercial or residential buildings, according to the draft.

It also bans the use and import of energy-inefficient materials, techniques and facilities. Departments concerned are required to publish regular catalogues detailing efficient techniques or prohibiting wasteful materials.

The use of banned construction materials or facilities could lead to a fine of 200,000 to 500,000 yuan (US$26,300 to 65,800), it says, adding government buildings should install energy-saving equipment such as low-energy lamps.

(Xinhua News Agency July 4, 2007)