Collective self-consumption schemes in Portugal jump 142% in eight months to over 2,100

The number of collective self-consumption projects and renewable energy communities running in Portugal rose from 879 in January to 2,127 by September 2026, according to the Environment and Energy Ministry. Together they hold 124.1 MW of installed capacity. Individual self-consumption also grew, with over 282,000 certified installations and about 2.78 GW in early October. The ministry credits Decree-Law 130/2026, which cuts grid-operator consultations, relaxes proximity rules and eases entry and exit of participants. Public-sector projects must aim to make at least 10% of shared energy available to vulnerable consumers, and eligible schemes get a seven-year exemption from certain electricity-bill charges.