Assistance in funding gas appliance replacements
Portugal Launches E-Lar Program to Boost Energy Efficiency
Portugal is taking a significant step towards promoting energy efficiency and combating energy poverty with the launch of the E-Lar program. The initiative aims to encourage households to replace inefficient or gas-powered appliances with energy-efficient electric appliances, as part of broader efforts to transition towards sustainable energy use.
The E-Lar program, funded with up to €40 million, has a potential budget of €30 million from the Recovery and Resilience Plan and an additional €10 million from the Environmental Fund, contingent on demand. The combined initiatives around E-Lar and the Bairros + Sustentáveis program are funded with up to €100 million, aimed at making homes more efficient and combating energy poverty.
Eligible appliances for replacement under E-Lar are limited to gas stoves, ovens, and water heaters, which must be replaced by electric appliances of Class A energy efficiency or higher. The program is open to all consumers, with financial caps differing based on social and contract eligibility.
Individuals and families eligible under the social energy tariff and participating in the Bairros + Sustentáveis program can receive up to €1,683 in support for replacing gas appliances. Those without restrictions on electricity supply contracts can receive up to €1,100.
Payment for the replaced appliances is made directly by the Climate Agency to suppliers, who are responsible for ensuring that the replaced appliances are recycled properly. Supplier registration opened in mid-August, and applications for individuals and families start from September 30, 2025, continuing until funds are depleted.
The Bairros + Sustentáveis program is open to municipalities, private social solidarity institutions, and residents' associations. Projects eligible for the program include thermal insulation, green roofs, natural ventilation systems, solar panels, and more efficient water use devices. The program estimates that the available funds will allow for work in at least 3,500 residential units.
To benefit from the support, families can register for the program starting September 30. The registration process involves filling out a form on the website www.fundoambiental.pt. The Minister of Environment and Energy, Maria da Graça Carvalho, expects a large turnout from retailers for the E-Lar program, and a large participation from various entities for the Bairros + Sustentáveis program.
In summary:
| Aspect | Details | |-----------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Program Purpose | Replace inefficient/gas ovens, stoves, water heaters with energy-efficient electric ones | | Budget | €40 million total (€30M RRP + €10M Environmental Fund), up to €100M combined with Bairros + Sustentáveis | | Eligible Appliances | Gas ovens, stoves, and water heaters | | Maximum Support Amount | €1,683 for social energy tariff beneficiaries in Bairros + Sustentáveis, €1,100 others | | Application Start Date| September 30, 2025 | | Payment Method | Direct to suppliers by Climate Agency, with appliance recycling mandated |
This program is part of Portugal's broader commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, targeting energy poverty and encouraging a shift away from fossil fuel appliances in residential settings.
The E-Lar program's focus on replacing gas appliances with energy-efficient electric ones aligns with Portugal's broader objective of promoting sustainable energy use in residential settings. This transition in household appliances underpins the country's dedication to enhancing energy efficiency, combating energy poverty, and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, all actions that are part of Portugal's commitment to environmental-science and technology.
Portugal's initiative to boost energy efficiency through the E-Lar program serves as a testament to the country's investment in research and development of new, energy-efficient technology, a crucial aspect of maintaining a sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
