Portugal's Regulated Gas Prices Rise by 6.4% Amid Global Market Uncertainty

Natural gas prices in Portugal have risen by an average of 6.4% for over 431,000 households on the regulated market, effective October 1. This increase marks the beginning of a new 'gas year' that will run until September 30, 2027.

For households, the actual price hike depends on consumption levels. According to ERSE simulations, a couple without children in the first consumption bracket will now pay an average of €17.38 per month, up from €16.47. A couple with two children in the second bracket will pay an average of €32.53, which is a €1.62 increase.

However, part of every gas bill is made up of regulated network access tariffs set by ERSE, which are paid by customers in both markets. These tariffs also change from October 1, with the network access component increasing by 0.098 cents per kilowatt-hour for domestic and other low-pressure consumers using up to 10,000 cubic metres a year.

The increases come amid higher natural gas purchasing costs and considerable uncertainty on international energy markets, fueled by the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Energy-sector specialists warn that the situation could 'only get worse' in the coming months, with more frequent tariff revisions potentially needed due to sustained pressure on international prices.