With Malta sweating through another stretch of extreme summer temperatures, a new campaign is encouraging residents to stay cool without sending their energy consumption through the roof.The Climate Action Authority has launched its ‘Stay Cool’ campaign, sharing practical tips on how people can protect themselves from excessive heat while using electricity more efficiently.And after the summer Malta has experienced, the advice comes at a particularly relevant time.Summer 2026 has brought temperatures frequently climbing beyond 37°C to 39°C, while ‘feels like’ values have topped a sweltering 40°C to 42°C.The campaign is being rolled out through social media, television advertising and street media, focusing on small changes that can help keep homes comfortable without unnecessarily increasing energy use.One of the main recommendations concerns Malta’s favourite summer appliance: the air-conditioner.Residents are being encouraged to set their AC units at around 25°C, providing effective cooling while avoiding excessive electricity consumption.Other tips include blocking direct sunlight before rooms have a chance to heat up, choosing cooler meals that generate less heat inside the home and, of course, drinking plenty of water throughout the day.But the campaign isn’t only about electricity bills and air-conditioning.People are also being reminded to check on elderly relatives, friends and neighbours during periods of extreme heat and to seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.And there’s one particularly important reminder for motorists: never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle, especially during extreme temperatures.At the heart of the campaign is a straightforward message, staying safe and comfortable during Malta’s scorching summer doesn’t necessarily have to mean wasting energy.Small changes to how we cool our homes and workplaces can help protect our health while making better use of the electricity we consume.So keep that water bottle close, shut out the midday sun and maybe resist setting the AC to Arctic mode.Share with your household!•