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Electricity & gas · Italy
Checked 2026-09-30

🩺 I depend on medical equipment or I am vulnerable: is there extra protection in Italy?

The short answer

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 Italy

Vulnerable and medical customers

If someone in your home depends on electromedical life-support equipment, the electricity supply can never be suspended, not even for unpaid bills (ARERA, TIMOE art. 23). The same household can also get the bonus for serious health conditions.

  • Bonus for serious health conditions: apply at the municipality of residence of the account holder or at an authorised CAF, with an ASL certificate on the equipment and daily hours of use. No ISEE is needed. (arera.it)
Official source: arera.it · Checked 2026-09-30

🪜 Step by step

  1. Check who counts as vulnerableSee below who is protected in Italy and what the protection covers.
  2. Register or inform your supplierAsk your supplier and grid operator how to register. A doctor's certificate may be needed.
  3. Plan for a power cutProtection against cut-offs for debt does not stop faults. Keep a backup plan for your equipment.
  4. Keep your details up to dateTell your supplier when your situation changes, and renew any certificate in time.

📇 Who to contact

Bonus sociale luce e gasDiscount or support scheme for energy costsIf you have a low income or receive benefits🔗 www.arera.it/consumatori/bonus-sociale
Servizio Conciliazione ARERASettles disputes with energy companiesWhen the company has not solved your complaint🔗 conciliazione.arera.it/risoluzione-controversie/servizio-conciliazione-gen
ARERA - Autorità di Regolazione per Energia Reti e AmbienteSupervises energy companies and explains your rightsFor information, and to report a company that breaks the rules📞 800.166.654🔗 www.arera.it/consumatori

❓ 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 Italy 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

Checked: 2026-09-30

🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

🔗 Also useful

💸Can’t pay the bill→🤝Help with energy costs→🔌Power cut→🔄Switching supplier→📈Price increase→

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