Law No. 226 “On the establishment of social protection measures for vulnerable energy consumers”.

This Law primarily addresses the establishment and regulation of social protection measures for vulnerable energy consumers. Its objectives include ensuring energy affordability, continuous energy supply, promoting energy efficiency in housing, and combating energy poverty and social exclusion. The Law operates within the broader legal framework of the national legislation on energy, social protection, and consumer rights, emphasizing principles of non-discrimination, transparency, and targeted support for vulnerable groups. Key measures outlined include financial support mechanisms such as housing heating aid, energy consumption aid, and assistance for purchasing energy-efficient appliances and building upgrades. Non-financial measures encompass facilitation of access and connection to energy sources, prohibition of disconnection for vulnerable consumers, and provision of accessible information on energy costs and procedures. The Law specifies eligibility criteria based on income, age, health, and isolation status, with support levels determined by income thresholds and consumption levels. It also details procedures for application, verification, and the calculation of aid, including the roles of local authorities, suppliers, and social agencies, along with provisions for updating aid amounts and monitoring compliance. Implementation mechanisms involve annual application deadlines, social investigations, data centralization, and coordination among local and national authorities. The Law mandates the preparation of methodological rules within 30 days of publication, sets timelines for aid distribution, and establishes sanctions for non-compliance. It also incorporates secondary themes such as procedural transparency, enforcement through fines, and stakeholder involvement, including local government authorities, suppliers, and social services, to ensure effective delivery and oversight of the social protection measures for vulnerable energy consumers.