Energy utility changes affect consumers in Brazil and Portugal

Low-income families in Brazil and consumers in Portugal are facing upcoming changes to their energy utility contracts and benefits.

In Brazil, Cemig customers receiving social tariffs must ensure their registration data is accurate to avoid losing electricity discounts. New rules require that the utility bill holder, the Cadastro Único data, and the consumer unit address are all compatible. Beneficiaries with existing discrepancies have until December 31, 2026, to regularize their information. Key requirements include having the bill in the name of a family member registered in Cadastro Único or a BPC beneficiary, and ensuring the registered municipality matches the service location.

In Portugal, approximately 1.2 million families will be required to transition from regulated electricity and gas tariffs to the liberalized market by December 31, 2027. While the regulated market offers prices set by the regulator (ERSE), the liberalized market allows providers to compete on pricing. The government has noted that many remaining regulated customers are vulnerable populations, such as the elderly. By law, these customers must be notified at least six months in advance to select a new provider.