I depend on medical equipment or I am vulnerable: is there extra protection in Latvia?
People who rely on electrically powered medical equipment, older people and people on a low income often get extra protection. You usually have to register or tell your supplier and grid operator.
📜 The rules in Latvia
Vulnerable and medical customers
Latvian law defines a 'protected user' (aizsargātais lietotājs): a low-income (trūcīga or maznodrošināta) household, a family with three or more children, a family caring for a child with a disability, or a person with a Group I disability, using electricity at home. Protected users get a state-paid monthly reduction on the electricity bill: €20, or €25 for large families, from 1 January 2026. If you hold the contract yourself it is applied automatically; the state identifies you through the protected-user data system (ALDIS), run by the Būvniecības valsts kontroles birojs.
- The reduction never exceeds the month's bill for electricity and system services and cannot be used to pay off arrears; an unused part carries over within the calendar year. (likumi.lv)
- If someone else holds the electricity contract (you are a sub-user), register with the trader, giving the contract number and your personal code. Participating traders: Latvenergo (Elektrum), Tet, Enefit, Latvijas dzelzceļš, Virši Renergy, Ignitis Latvija and Alexela. Check your status with the 'Elektroenerģijas atvieglojuma nodrošināšana' e-service on latvija.lv; questions: +371 62333363 or aldis.sistema@bvkb.gov.lv. (bvkb.gov.lv)
🪜 Step by step
- Check who counts as vulnerableSee below who is protected in Latvia and what the protection covers.
- Register or inform your supplierAsk your supplier and grid operator how to register. A doctor's certificate may be needed.
- Plan for a power cutProtection against cut-offs for debt does not stop faults. Keep a backup plan for your equipment.
- Keep your details up to dateTell your supplier when your situation changes, and renew any certificate in time.
📇 Who to contact
❓ Questions
Can I be cut off for debt if I am registered?
Many countries forbid or limit cut-offs for protected customers. The rules for Latvia are on this page.
Will I be warned before planned works?
Registered customers are often told about planned interruptions in advance. Ask your grid operator.
Is there help with the costs?
Many countries have a social tariff or support scheme. Ask your supplier and your municipality.
📎 Sources
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