The University of Pécs (PTE) has introduced the following measures to save energy (from 10 October):

• the temperature provided by heating cannot exceed 20 degrees in the university’s lecture, office and dormitory halls;
• 18-degree heating limit is introduced in the public halls and corridors;
• the use of any heat-generating device (e.g. radiant heaters) and air-conditioners which can also be used for heating is prohibited;
• non-essential lighting (lighting outside buildings, other decorative lighting from sculptures to buildings and parking lights) is turned off;
• the use of lifts not necessary for the uninterrupted continuation of essential activities or for accessibility is prohibited;
• electric car chargers may only be used by the university e-car fleet;
• charging of electric scooters and bicycles for personal use is prohibited;
• restrictions on the operation of certain convenience equipment (e.g. water coolers/heaters, vending machines for food and beverages).

Photo: University of Pécs

Autumn break is cancelled

PTE’s saving measures has also modified the structure of the academic year:

• the academic term will end on 2 December;
• the autumn break is cancelled;
• the examination period will be scheduled between 5 December and 13 January (longer in justified cases, with the prior agreement of the Rector).
• between 24 December and 8 January, the faculties will be closed. Upon reasoned request of the Deans, the Rector may authorise the organisation of examinations and related work.

Other universities also introduced energy-saving measures

ELTE had already changed the structure of academic year at the beginning of September. The autumn break has been moved to 12-17 December, so the last day of the autumn semester will be the 9th December (10th December for correspondence training).

The heating in lecture and dormitory halls can be set to a maximum of 20 degrees, according to energy-saving measures at Pázmány Péter Catholic University. Hot water is also turned off, and autumn, spring breaks will be cancelled.

The management of Corvinus University of Budapest has decided to extend the winter break. As part of energy saving measures, the building of the university will be closed for three weeks in winter season.