Portugal approves its National Energy Poverty Strategy

“Energy poverty has impacts on the social well-being, quality of life, health, and productivity of families, and it is not exclusive to those in economic need.’’

EPAH is pleased to share that the Council of Ministers in Portugal approved the Portuguese National Long-term Energy Poverty Mitigation Strategy 2023-2050 on the 8th of January, 2024. This marks the adoption of a long-term strategy to address the issue through proactive measures that inspire structural changes towards its eradication.

The primary objective of the National Strategy is to eliminate energy poverty by 2050. This involves safeguarding vulnerable consumers and actively involving them in a fair and democratic transition towards sustainable energy and climate practices.

The strategy also sets guidelines for creating a National Energy Poverty Observatory and regular decadal action plans (2030, 2040, 2050).

The strategy is structured around four areas of action:

• Fostering the energy and environmental sustainability of housing
• Ensuring universal access to essential energy services
• Promoting integrated territorial initiatives
• Advancing knowledge and informed engagement.

Read the full statement for more information.