Although the number of beneficiaries peaked in 2025, more than 1.2 million unused euros were transferred to the 2026 allocation. The government is studying simplifying applications.
Half of public support allocated to the purchase of gas cylinders not used in 2025despite the significant increase in the price of bottled gas in recent years. Of the 2.5 million euros budgeted for the support program, around 1.2 million remained, which were transferred to the 2026 budget, keeping the measure in force.
Still, the number of beneficiaries reached a new high last year. In 2025, support reached an additional 105,000 citizens, the highest amount since the program was created in 2022. In total, 105,845 vouchers worth 15 euros were allocated to support the purchase of gas cylinders for families benefiting from the social electricity tariff or minimum social benefits, totaling 1.5 million euros. The data was provided by the Ministry of the Environment.
The program’s evolution has been uneven. In 2022, the year the measure started, 509.2 thousand euros were allocated to 50,925 beneficiaries. The following year, support grew to 957.8 thousand euros, covering 95,787 people. In 2024, there was a drop, with 686.1 thousand euros distributed among 68,616 candidates, before a new increase in 2025.
Despite the record number of beneficiaries, budget execution remains below expectations. An order published in Diário da República confirmed the transfer of 1.2 million euros unused in 2025 for this year. With this reinforcement, the maximum allocation for the program, now called “Solidarity Gas Bottle”, amounts to 2.065 million euros, after an increase of 865 thousand euros.
The Ministry of the Environment recognizes that the scope of the measure is a concern and is study adjustments to the program. According to the guardianship, led by Maria da Graça Carvalho, options are being evaluated to “simplify and make the application process more accessible”, ensuring that support reaches those who need it more effectively. Until then, applications continue to be presented at parish councils.
Since 2022, the “Solidarity Gas Bottle” has distributed 3.7 million euros to more than 321 thousand beneficiaries.
