Environment minister moves to widen ERSE's power over fuel sector

Environment and Energy Minister Maria da Graça Carvalho has asked energy regulator ERSE to make fuel price information clearer and to propose possible legislative changes, following a report ERSE issued on 14 August on fuel pricing in Portugal. In a letter dated 28 August, she backed ERSE's recommendations and asked it to strengthen transparency and consumer information, including harmonising public price references and reviewing how discounted prices are calculated. She also wants ERSE's sanctioning powers extended to the national oil sector. ERSE's original study found no grounds for administrative price intervention but suggested temporary support for sectors like professional road transport if disruptions persist.