Spain Plans to End Biannual Time Change by 2026 Amid Public Debate

On October 26, 2025, Spain will observe its traditional clock change to winter time by turning clocks back one hour, continuing a practice in place since 1981. However, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has announced plans to propose to the European Union's Energy Council the abolition of this biannual time change by 2026, responding to growing public opposition and scientific concerns about its health effects (108516, 108508, 108515).

Spain's move to end the time changes corresponds with widespread rejection among Spaniards—with a 2023 CIS survey finding 65.8% favor elimination—and international debate that has stalled at the EU level due to lack of consensus (108510). Beyond public sentiment, scientific research highlights that the energy savings from time changes are minimal to negligible, especially since modern lighting technologies reduce the historical justification, while adverse health consequences include disruptions to sleep, concentration, and increased risks for obesity and cardiovascular diseases (108516, 108508, 108510).

The core issue remains whether Spain should adopt permanent winter time (GMT+1) or summer time (GMT+2). The government remains neutral, seeking expert and regional consensus. Health experts tend to favor winter time for its alignment with natural daylight, supporting healthier work-life rhythms and better morning sunlight exposure. Conversely, 70% of Spaniards prefer summer time, driven by lifestyle and economic benefits, such as longer afternoon daylight boosting tourism and hospitality sectors (108516, 108510).

Spain's time zone history is also pertinent. Initially aligned with Greenwich Mean Time until 1940, the country's time was shifted during Franco’s regime to match Nazi Germany’s time zone, contributing to the current debates on geographic and social alignment (108516).

While the last scheduled clock change is set for October 25, 2026, the final decision depends on EU consensus. Meanwhile, devices will continue to adjust automatically or manually at the annual change, impacting many across the country especially children and night workers (108515). Sánchez’s proposal aims to end uncertainty and improve public health and economic prospects within Spain and the broader EU framework (108516, 108508).