By Kim Jae-won

In an effort to cope with rising international oil prices triggered by unrest in the Middle East, the government will restrict outdoor billboard lighting and encourage people to refrain from using private vehicles.

The measures are to kick in today, after the government raised the energy alert level from ``concern’’ to ``caution,’’ Sunday. The change of alert level came as international oil prices remained above $100 per barrel for the fifth consecutive day.

More specifically, the higher level calls for all decoration-purpose lighting to be turned off at water fountains, monuments and bridges, lowering the level of illumination for streets.

Neon lighting for banks, commercial-residential buildings, apartments and other big buildings must be switched off after midnight.
Also affected are showrooms at department and large-scale stores as well as car dealerships. Gas stations and LPG gas filling stations will also be obligated to use half of their normal lighting. A seven-day grace period is now starting with violators facing 3 million in fines after that.

The Ministry of Knowledge Economy has been implementing incentives for energy conservation for small firms since March last year with 10 billion won earmarked, while introducing a “cash-back” system for energy-saving households.

Meanwhile, in cooperation with local governments, the ministry is pushing ahead with a plan encouraging people to leave their vehicles at home one day in five working days, asking the Seoul government to designate the day to “use mass transportation.”

The price of Dubai crude, Korea’s benchmark, has shot up to over $100 per barrel on the spot market for over five straight days.
Resources-poor Korea relies almost entirely on imports for its oil needs. The rising oil prices are directly related to unrest sweeping much of northern Africa and the Middle East, which account for a significant portion of the global oil output.

“We expect oil prices to stabilize once Saudi Arabia increases its output,” a government official was quoted as saying. “Unless the unrest cools off, however, we may see a further rise in oil prices.”
The government will raise the alert level to “watch,” if the prices pass $130 and to “serious,” if they exceed $150.