With winter approaching and the predictable increase in household expenses, many Portuguese families are starting to look at their electricity bills in search of relief. The price drop announced by the main electricity suppliers opens up space for new savings opportunities.
Suppliers reduce electricity prices
After consecutive months of high tariffs, energy companies have finally started to lower prices. According to Correio da Manhã (CM), EDP was the first to set the tone, setting the cost of electricity at €0.1424/kWh, a value around 20% below the market average, which stood at €0.1600/kWh.
Other operators followed. Iberdrola, Repsol and Plenitude also adjusted their tariffs downwards, culminating with Endesa, which started to offer electricity at €0.1297/kWh, the most competitive price at the moment. The trend creates a favorable context for consumers, especially at a time when the cold and increased consumption are causing bills to soar.
ERSE advises you to compare rates regularly
According to the Energy Services Regulatory Authority (ERSE), this is the appropriate time to simulate prices and compare offers. The organization recommends that consumers make this comparison at least twice a year, in order to ensure that they benefit from the most advantageous tariff. Changing suppliers is free, fast and done online. The process takes between 24 and 48 hours and only requires the data contained in the current invoice.
In addition to direct reductions in electricity prices, some companies offer discounts of up to 27%, sign-up bonuses of up to 50 euros and additional benefits for grocery shopping and fuel supply, which reinforces the incentive to switch.
Tips for reducing energy consumption
Even with lower tariffs, the most effective way to save continues to be the efficient use of energy. Among the simplest and most effective measures are:
- Replace all light bulbs with LEDs;
- Replace old appliances with class A or higher models;
- Unplug appliances that are not in use from the socket;
- Take advantage of natural light and improve the home’s thermal insulation;
- Only use washing machines when they are full and on “eco” programs.
According to the same source, these practices help to reduce consumption, but the impact is limited, as there is equipment that cannot be turned off and basic needs that cannot be eliminated.
Energy simulators: the most effective tool
According to , the most direct way to obtain significant savings is to use an electricity and gas price simulator. These online platforms automatically compare the tariffs of all suppliers for the same consumption and contracted power, indicating which is the most economical option.
In addition to facilitating comparison, many of these simulators offer personalized support to help consumers choose the best rate and maximize savings.
In a period in which energy costs increasingly weigh on the family budget, taking advantage of the drop in tariffs and using simulation tools can make a difference in each month’s bill.
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