Tesla’s plans to expand its Supercharger network in Portugal appear to be back on track after years of regulatory hurdles, thanks to a decision by the Portuguese government to open the electric vehicle (EV) charging market.
The long-awaited change removes barriers that previously restricted private entities, including Tesla, from freely expanding their charging infrastructure.
For over four years, Tesla’s Supercharger rollout in Portugal had been stalled due to regulatory constraints that mandated an intermediary to handle charging transactions. This framework not only limited competition but also contributed to higher EV charging prices in the country. However, the government made a significant shift toward a more open and competitive EV charging landscape by approving a draft version of a new charging bill this week, which will now head to public consultation period before it can be made into law.
On February 26, 2025, Portugal’s Minister of the Presidency, António Leitão Amaro, announced that the government would push forward with the “simplification and liberalization” of the electric vehicle charging industry. According to the minister, the reforms aim to make EV charging “as easy as filling up at a gas station.” (via Capital Verde)
Key changes include eliminating the requirement for users to have a contract with an energy supplier to charge their vehicles. Instead, EV owners will be able to charge at any station and pay with standard electronic payment methods. This move is expected to boost competition and lower charging costs, which have been notably high in Portugal compared to other European countries due to the regulations.
Additionally, the government is introducing transparency measures to ensure price standardization across charging stations, including those on highways and in concessioned areas. Another change includes the issuance of individual carbon bonds for users charging their EVs with fully green electricity, further encouraging sustainable energy use.
Tesla has been preparing for this regulatory change in the background and is ready to quickly deploy new Supercharger stations across the country. If the public consultation process proceeds smoothly, Tesla could open up to 100 new Supercharger stalls in time for the summer travel season, according to Tesla Charging lead Max de Zegher.
This is looking great for Portuguese EV drivers. @TeslaCharging has been preparing aggressively for this common-sense regulation change in the background. If public consultation goes well, we'll be able to open up to 100 Supercharger stalls, in time for summer peaks. Vamos!! https://t.co/c9CWB4dqvL
— Max de Zegher (@MdeZegher) February 26, 2025
Tesla currently has 8 Supercharger stations in Portugal with 78 charging posts, plus 2 under construction and one in development.
