Latvia's Ministry of Climate and Energy proposes expanded heating subsidies

The Latvian Ministry of Climate and Energy (KEM) is proposing to increase the amount and scope of housing benefits for the upcoming heating season. The ministry aims to allocate up to 10 million euros to expand support to an additional 28,000 to 38,000 households, specifically targeting low-income families, families with children, and seniors.

While natural gas reserves are sufficient and the average increase in centralized heating tariffs is expected to remain below 5%, the ministry notes that energy costs may still pose a significant financial burden for certain vulnerable groups. The proposal includes increasing applicable coefficients for benefit calculations and raising state co-financing for municipalities to 50%.

Additionally, KEM has proposed redirecting approximately 4 million euros from its own expenditure savings to support protected electricity users through the end of the year.