Spain Lowers Speed Limit to Save Energy Costs

VOA Breaking News
Voice of America
March 8, 2011 at 3:00 am

Spain has come up with a partial solution to skyrocketing gasoline prices — lowering highway speed limits.

Officials have cut the speed limit this week from 120 kilometers per hour to 110.

Spain's socialist government says driving slower, combined with such other energy saving measures as installing lower-watt lightbulbs and encouraging more public transportation, are needed to reduce Spain's reliance on foreign oil.

Some opposition politicians say the savings from a lower speed limit will be negligible. So do some drivers who already are complaining about being forced to ease off the gas pedal.

The lower speed limit will be in effect through the end of June.