Portugal is bracing for energy cuts and will follow the example of other European countries, such as Spain, limiting the levels of energy consumption in public buildings, private companies, commerce, services, industry and also in family homes. The Portuguese government has outlined a set of mandatory measures being designed to save energy in order to face a possible situation of energy shortage, caused by the shortage of Russian gas supply to some European countries. Portugal's energy saving measures are to be introduced in September and will include fines if not obeyed.
According to Público, which quotes a member of the Government, limiting energy consumption levels in public buildings will be one of the measures to be adopted by the Executive as part of the energy saving plan approved by the European Commission.
The Government is still analysing and determining the set of measures to be followed in order to meet the European recommendations of energy use reduction proposed by Brussels. This reduction should be 15% in most countries of the European Union (EU), but lower (7%) in Portugal and Spain.
Energy cuts in Portugal affect businesses and homes
On the table is also the possibility of adopting rules in large stores to limit energy consumption, and some of the measures under consideration relate to the use of cold storage in supermarkets, air conditioning in shopping centres and heating in hotels. Sources have confirmed that the plan to restrict energy use in Portugal will be presented by the end of August, so that it can come into force in September.
The idea is for Portugal to fulfil its part of the agreement reached in Brussels. And, Nelson Lage, president of the Agency for Energy (ADENE), confirms there may be energy saving measures that will have a provisional character, but the others may have a "permanent" and "mandatory" character, cites Expresso.
"It won't just be an awareness campaign, there will be measures focused on the various sectors, from individual consumers to industry," Nelson Lage admits to the same publication. These measures will also include the transport and fleet sectors.
According to the same newspaper, António Costa's Government's intention is firstly to "identify the measures that may produce practical results in energy savings" - work that is being carried out by ADENE. And then, to see if a new source of funding is needed to put them into practice.
And there are a number of aspects about the energy saving measures in Portugal that need to be confirmed by the Government:
- Details of the implementation of the measures
- The scope over time
- Sanctioning framework to be applied in case of non-compliance.
Cheapest places to buy property in the Algarve in 2025
Latest idealista figures identify seven Algarve municipalities with average sale prices below €3,000 per square metre. These pockets of value across the Faro district offer a more accessible route into the region’s housing market, in comparison to places such as Lagos and Almancil, where property prices averaged 4,361 €/m² and 6,189 €/m² in August 2025, respectively.
Essential documents for getting a mortgage in Portugal: a guide for foreign buyers
Buying a home in Portugal is an exciting experience, but understanding the paperwork involved in securing a mortgage can be tricky, especially for foreign buyers. From personal identification to property certificates, knowing which documents are required at each stage can save you time, avoid delays, and make the process much smoother. This is everything you need to know about the essential documents for getting a mortgage in Portugal.
Wildfire victims in Portugal to receive free legal support
The Portuguese Bar Association has launched a solidarity initiative to lessen the impact of rural wildfires and support victims across the country. A pool of around 500 volunteer lawyers will provide free legal assistance to citizens and businesses severely affected by the blazes.
Inside Nicole Kidman’s reported move to Portugal
Australian actress Nicole Kidman is reportedly leaving Hollywood for Portugal and has already applied for residency in the country.
What is TAEG in Portugal? Understanding mortgage costs for foreign buyers
If you’re planning to buy property in Portugal, you’ve likely come across the term TAEG while researching mortgages. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it important for you as a foreign buyer?
Getting a mortgage in Portugal as a foreigner: a complete guide
If you’re considering buying property in Portugal, understanding how to get a mortgage as a foreigner is crucial. Portugal’s appealing climate, affordable living costs, and attractive property market have made it a hotspot for expats and international buyers. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting a mortgage in Portugal as a non-resident, from eligibility requirements to the application process and associated costs.
IMI Portugal 2025: what foreign residents and homeowners need to know
The Municipal Property Tax (IMI) is an annual tax charged by Portuguese councils on property owners, including foreign residents who own property in Portugal. This tax is based on the property’s taxable value (VPT) and applies to both rural and urban properties. The amount paid helps to fund local services and infrastructure across the country.