ZERO urges energy regulator to reject gas network expansion plan

Environmental association ZERO has asked Portugal's energy regulator ERSE to issue an unfavourable opinion on investment proposals to expand the natural gas distribution network and attract new consumers. The position was submitted as part of a public consultation on the 2027-2031 gas distribution investment plan, which foresees €350.5 million in spending and closed on 4 August. ZERO argues this contradicts EU electrification and decarbonisation goals, and calls for rejecting investment in new fossil gas consumers, especially in homes and services. It instead urges priority for network safety, cutting methane leaks, digitalisation and sustainable biomethane integration.