Expansion of Tesla's Supercharger network in Portugal may be reinstated due to the easing of charging regulations by the government.

Portugal's Minister of the Presidency, António Leitão Amaro, announced on February 26, 2025, a series of reforms aimed at making electric vehicle (EV) charging as easy as filling up at a gas station. The reforms, which are set to liberalize the EV charging industry, are expected to increase competition and lower charging costs in Portugal.

The government's decision has put Tesla's Supercharger network expansion in Portugal back on track. Previously, regulatory constraints in Portugal mandated an intermediary for charging transactions, limiting competition and contributing to higher EV charging prices. However, the new reforms will eliminate this requirement, opening the EV charging market for private entities like Tesla.

The key changes include the elimination of the requirement for users to have a contract with an energy supplier to charge their vehicles. This means that EV owners in Portugal will be able to charge at any station and pay with standard electronic payment methods. The Portuguese government is also introducing transparency measures to ensure price standardization across charging stations, including those on highways and in concessioned areas.

Another significant change is the issuance of individual carbon bonds for users charging their EVs with fully green electricity. This move is intended to further encourage sustainable energy use among EV owners in Portugal.

Tesla, which currently has 8 Supercharger stations in Portugal with 78 charging posts, plus 2 under construction and one in development, has been preparing for the regulatory change 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.

The number of Supercharger stations in Portugal, if the planned expansion goes ahead, will increase substantially, providing more convenience for Tesla owners. The new Supercharger stations, if deployed, will significantly increase the number of charging options for Tesla owners in Portugal.

The Portuguese government has approved a draft version of a new charging bill that will head to public consultation before becoming law. The public consultation process will determine the final implementation of these changes in the EV charging industry in Portugal. The new charging bill aims to simplify and liberalize the EV charging industry, making it easier for both EV owners and charging station operators.

The expected outcome of these changes is increased competition and lower charging costs in Portugal. With the liberalization of the EV charging market, Portugal is set to become a more attractive destination for EV owners, boosting the adoption of electric vehicles in the country.

Expansion of Tesla's Supercharger network in Portugal may be reinstated due to the easing of charging regulations by the government.