Electric Charging Points in Portugal: Everything You Need to Know

The transition to electric mobility is a growing reality in Portugal, bringing with it the need to create suitable charging infrastructure. If you plan to acquire an electric vehicle or already own one, some essential questions arise: how and where to install a charging point? What authorizations are needed? What costs are involved? And what financial support is available?

This post answers all these questions clearly and practically, guiding you from technical requirements through licensing processes and financial subsidies.

Electric Charging Point at a public station

What are Electric Charging Points?

Electric charging points (wallboxes, charging stations, or specific sockets) are equipment that safely and efficiently allow charging electric vehicle batteries. They can be installed in single-family homes, condominiums, commercial spaces, or public roads, varying in power and features.

Types of chargers:

• Slow charging (up to 3.7 kW): suitable for overnight charging

• Semi-fast charging (7.4 to 22 kW): ideal for home and business use

• Fast charging (above 50 kW): used at public stations

"Installing a charging point at home or in a condominium is now simpler and more affordable than ever, thanks to public incentives and legislative simplification."

When is it necessary to install a Charging Point?

Installation is recommended when:

• You own or intend to acquire an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle

• You seek autonomy and convenience, avoiding exclusive dependance on public stations

• You want to benefit from cheaper electricity tariffs (night charging)

• You want to increase the property’s value with modern, sustainable infrastructure

Technical requirements for installation

Before installation, ensure the electrical system meets minimum safety and power criteria:

• Adequate contracted power: verify current capacity supports the charger or if an upgrade is needed with E-REDES

• Good condition electrical panel with available space and protections (breaker, differential, grounding)

• Certified professional installation complying with DGEG norms and the Technical Guide for Electrical Installations for EV Charging

• Individual or shared meter for consumption monitoring and correct billing

Installation in Single-family Homes

The process is straightforward:

• Contact a certified electrician

• Assess contracted power and installation capacity

• Choose the appropriate wallbox type

• Install protections on the electrical panel

• Mount equipment near parking

No municipal license needed for private property but must follow safety standards

Installation in Condominiums: Rights and procedures

Since 2022, any condominium owner may install a charging point without prior assembly approval. The process is:

Step 1: Prior Notification

Send written notice to the condominium administration at least 30 days before installation

Step 2: Await response (optional)

Condominium can only refuse installation in exceptional cases:

• If the building already has or plans to install a common charger within 90 days

• If installation risks safety or property

• If it damages the architectural line

Step 3: Installation

After 30 days, proceed with installation at your cost

Note: The charger can be connected to your individual meter or the shared services panel with a dedicated meter.

Electric Charging Point at a single-family home

Licensing and Authorizations

Private Installation (residential)

• No municipal license or permission required

• Must comply with safety standards and be installed by certified professional

• Contact E-REDES if upgrading contracted power

Public or Public-access Installation

Required:

• Charging Point Operator License (OPC) from DGEG

• Public domain use license from Municipality

• Compliance with Decree-Law No. 93/2025 and Ordinance No. 241/2015

Where to apply?

• DGEG: mobilidade.eletrica@dgeg.gov.pt

• Local Municipality

Installation Costs

Costs vary by power, features, and installation complexity:

Item	Custo Estimado
Simple wallbox	500 € - 800 €
Smart wallbox	800 € - 1.300 €
Electrical installation	300 € - 1.000 €
Average total	800 € - 2.000 €

Financial Support and Incentives

In 2025, the Environmental Fund offers support covering up to 80% of eligible costs:

• Wallbox purchase: 80% subsidy, up to €800 per unit

• Electrical installation: 80% subsidy (with VAT), up to €1,000 per parking spot

• Maximum total: €1,800 per parking spot​

Access Conditions

• Maximum 1 charger per owner, 10 per condominium

• Wallbox must be connected to Mobi.E network

• Beneficiary must register as Charging Point Holder (DPC)​

New Electric Mobility Regime (2025)

Decree-Law No. 93/2025 introduced key changes:

• End of mandatory contracts for public charging

• Direct payment via bank card or QR code

• Visible prices at charging stations

• Simplified licensing for charging points

• Open market to new operators (end of Mobi.E monopoly)

Practical Advice

• Check contracted electric power before installing

• Always request detailed quotes from certified companies

• Stay informed about available incentives and apply on time

• Communicate formally in condominiums about installation plans

• Ensure charger links to the Mobi.E network to access support

• Consider solar panels to further reduce charging costs

Considerations

Installing electric charging points is a key step toward sustainable, efficient mobility. With supportive legislation, financial incentives, and a growing equipment market, ensuring your EV autonomy at home, in condominiums, or at work has never been easier. Planning ahead, choosing qualified professionals, and leveraging public aid is key for a successful and cost-effective installation.