'E-Lar' Program to Offer Vouchers for Replacing Gas Appliances Starting September 30
The Portuguese government has announced that applications for the E-Lar Program – Energy Efficiency in Residential Buildings will open on September 30, 2025. This initiative, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), is designed to replace household gas appliances with safer, more efficient, and sustainable electric alternatives. The program aims to support approximately 30,000 families by providing vouchers for the purchase of new equipment.
With a total budget of €30 million, the E-Lar program will issue vouchers for the acquisition of electrical appliances with a class 'A' or higher energy rating. Eligible items include electric induction or conventional hobs, ovens, and electric water heaters. The goal is to facilitate a transition away from gas in residential homes, contributing to national energy efficiency and sustainability targets. All individuals of legal age are eligible to apply and will be divided into three groups, with the program also covering transportation and installation costs for the first two groups.
A central requirement of the program is that the vouchers must be used at retailers that are pre-identified on the Environmental Fund's online platform. According to the consumer defense association Deco, this measure is intended to ensure that the new appliances meet all technical and safety standards. It also facilitates the proper collection and recycling of the old appliances, aligning with circular economy principles. While some experts have noted this could limit consumer choice, it is a stipulated rule in the program's regulation. Deco has advocated for expanding the network of approved suppliers to ensure broader access, particularly in less populated regions.
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Once an application is approved, the beneficiary must accept the E-Lar voucher within five working days and then activate it with a chosen supplier within 60 days. Each voucher is for single use only. Consumers are also required to retain all invoices and related documents and must cooperate with any potential audits or program evaluations. To assist the public, Deco has created the Housing and Energy Desk (BHE) in partnership with municipalities to provide personalized information and support throughout the application process.
This program represents a significant government effort to modernize the energy consumption profile of Portugal's housing stock. It provides a direct financial incentive for homeowners to upgrade their properties with more environmentally friendly technology.
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