Slovakia tightens energy aid, limits payouts to three apartments per owner

Starting in July, the Slovak government introduced new rules for the address‑based energy assistance programme. Payments are no longer made in a single instalment; the first portion was distributed in January, a second tranche in May, and a third will be paid in September. If the total voucher value is €20 or less, the full amount is delivered at once; larger sums are split, with the remaining balance paid by the end of December.

The regulation also tightens eligibility checks. Authorities will assess household income more frequently and can revoke assistance if earnings rise above set limits, while decreases in income may restore eligibility. A key change limits the aid to a maximum of three apartments per owner, with the state selecting the properties with the lowest energy consumption for payment. These measures aim to curb abuse, redirect funds to households most in need, and improve fiscal discipline.

The overhaul affects thousands of Slovak families who rely on the subsidy to offset rising energy costs.