The e -lar program, launched by the government to encourage the replacement of gas equipment with more efficient electrical alternatives, is generating controversy even before it comes into force. According to the Consumer Protection Association (DECO), the initiative can restrict consumers’ freedom of choice and end up increasing energy invoices rather than savings.
The project foresees to support about 30,000 families in the exchange of stoves, ovens and gas heater for class A or higher electrical appliances. The mechanism is based on the assignment of digital vouchers, whose value ranges from 1,100 euros to consumer in general and 1,683 euros for families considered vulnerable.
Rules of use raise criticism
Support will be granted in the form of a single digital check, which can only be used in a store, which means that the consumer will have to purchase and install all equipment through the same company. According to the same source, this rule may raise competition problems and limit the capacity to choose.
“The apparent obligation to acquire all equipment and installation from a single company can restrict competition and significantly limit the freedom of choice of consumers,” said Mariana Ludovino, spokesman for Deco Proteste, in statements to the Express.
Lack of incentives for structural interventions
In addition to the competition issue, Deco draws attention to an important gap: the program does not include support for thermal insulation works or other structural interventions that could improve long -term energy efficiency. The replacement of electric, even more modern, gas apparatuses may imply a significant increase in the monthly electricity invoice if not accompanied by additional efficiency measures in the building.
The e -lar also establishes maximum reimbursement values for each type of equipment, with different amounts as it is vulnerable or not families. Among the values defined for the former stand out 369 euros for induction plates, 738 euros for plate and oven sets, 615 euros for thermoacumulators and 180 euros for installation. For non -vulnerable families, the fixed ceilings descend, for example, for 300 euros in induction plates, 600 euros in plate and oven sets and 500 euros in thermoacumulators.
Applications start in September
Candidates for the program start on September 30 and will be made online. Explains the site that the measure, although framed in the energy transition strategy, arises from doubts about the real efficacy in the family budget.
Deco insists that the current model can translate into a support little adjusted to the real needs of consumers, while creating obstacles to competition in the market.
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