King Charles III of Buckingham Palace has taken another step towards reducing the royal family’s energy consumption. Known for his environmentalism and energy-saving policies, the monarch has reportedly lowered the temperature in the palace swimming pool.
This move aligns with his commitment to climate-friendly practices and his desire to minimize the royal household’s ecological footprint.
According to a source quoted by The Times, the water temperature in the palace pool has noticeably dropped, indicating that the King has instructed the heating to be turned down. This adjustment is likely driven by Charles’s belief that the traditional heating of the pool is environmentally unsound due to the use of chemicals and energy.
In addition to reducing the pool temperature, King Charles has urged staff not to light fires in the palace unless absolutely necessary. He views excessive heating as wasteful, irrespective of the weather conditions.
During his visit to Berlin last year, King Charles emphasized the importance of transitioning to alternative energy sources, highlighting the efforts made by the UK and Germany to achieve net-zero emissions. This commitment to action is not just rhetoric; Charles has implemented sustainable practices in his own properties. Solar panels have been installed on Clarence House, and water from baths and waste is repurposed to maintain the gardens at his country residence in Highgrove.
Charles’s dedication to energy conservation extends beyond his personal properties. Staff members have observed him checking for any lights left on in unoccupied rooms and keeping windows open, even in winter. By minimizing energy waste, the King hopes to lead by example and inspire others to adopt more sustainable habits.
The royal household’s energy bills, funded by taxpayers through the sovereign grant, amounted to £3.2 million last year. King Charles aims to achieve net-zero emissions in the royal household well ahead of the UK government’s target of 2050, demonstrating his commitment to environmental stewardship.