Seven out of 10 Germans using less energy: survey

Seven out of 10 Germans are using less energy due to decades-high inflation in Europe's largest economy while half are spending less on leisure activities, according to a new survey.

The share of those using less energy is up from 63 per cent in April this year, according to Infratest dimap's survey of 1,273 citizens for broadcaster ARD.

Annual inflation accelerated to 8.5 per cent in July from 7.8 per cent in April, driven by a 35 per cent rise in energy costs.

Lower-income households are changing their habits most, according to the survey, with two-thirds reducing their daily shopping and spending on leisure activities and holidays compared with half of households with an average income.