Pedro Palma and João Pedro Gouveia signed a joint statement released by the Coopérnico, GEOTA, the European Anti-Poverty Network (EAPN), and ZERO, warning that while energy poverty has gained traction in political agendas, it still lacks adequate responses.

The joint analysis focuses on three of the main public programs implemented in recent years: Edifícios Mais Sustentáveis, Vale Eficiência, and the most recent E-Lar. Despite the recognized potential of these instruments, the entities conclude that structural limitations persist, compromising the effectiveness and reach of the measures, particularly for the most vulnerable families.

Among the cross-cutting issues identified are the lack of qualified human resources in the entities responsible for processing applications, the slow pace of processes, delays in reimbursements, and excessive bureaucratic complexity. To this, the statement adds the lack of clear and accessible information, unforeseen costs for beneficiaries, and flawed digital platforms. These factors, the statement explains, lead many families to abandon the support process midway.