Operators of Shanghai's public buildings take note: The city, in its vision for a green future, is keeping an eye on your power consumption.

Those whose use exceed designated electricity limits face disciplinary action and adverse publicity in media outlets in an initiative that is a first for the city.

"It's of high importance to reduce the city's overall power consumption by promoting social awareness," Wang Baohai, deputy director of the Shanghai Architectural Energy Efficiency Management Office, said yesterday in announcing the crackdown.

He made the remarks during a conference where seven European building-material firms said they will promote thermal-insulation technology for exterior walls in Shanghai.

Wang said the city will publicize the power-use levels of public buildings, such as hotels, hospitals, schools and libraries. The government will install the first batch of electricity-monitoring devices in 100 public buildings this year.

Wang's office will also urge managers of public buildings to conduct any renovations with a view to better energy efficiency. He said power consumption by public and industrial buildings accounts for more than 80 percent of the city's total every year.