Skip to main content
European Commission logo
Clean energy for EU islands

Grid H&C - Connection, Use, and Development

Connection to the grid

Please fill in

Use of the grid

The use of heating and cooling (H&C) grids is primarily regulated by local authorities, who oversee the rights and obligations of both suppliers and consumers. Regulations ensure that heating services remain affordable and accessible, especially in areas with higher heating needs.

  • Consumer Rights and Pricing: The Energy Services Regulatory Authority (ERSE) provides guidance on consumer rights and cost structures, ensuring affordability and transparency for H&C services, particularly in urban district heating. Consumers are entitled to stable pricing mechanisms, with renewable integration incentives provided to reduce dependency on fossil fuels​.
  • Efficiency and Environmental Standards: ERSE also oversees efficiency standards for connected H&C systems to minimize environmental impact, requiring periodic assessments to ensure compliance with emissions and energy-saving goals outlined in Portugal’s 2030 National Energy and Climate Plan (PNEC 2030). These standards include thermal loss minimisation, emissions tracking, and energy source reporting requirements for H&C system operators.

Grid development

Please fill in

Competent Authorities

please fill in