TO starting from the end of February, electricity consumers classified as vulnerable will be able to request passage to Gradual protection service (TSG)thus benefiting from potentially more convenient rates. This important innovation, introduced by Competition bill at the end of 2024, has become fully operational thanks to the recent publication by Arera, the Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and the Environment, of the implementation methods.
Electricity, lighter bills for vulnerable customers
The surgery was expectedgiven the absurd situation experienced by the category of the most “fragile” consumers, such as the over 75s and those in conditions of economic hardship who, although considered the most in need of protection, found themselves, instead, those most exposed to market fluctuations. To remedy this situation, Arera intervened by outlining a clear path to allow vulnerable customers to access a potentially more advantageous alternative.
Arera’s decisions
The organization that carries out regulation and control activities in the electricity, natural gas, water services, waste cycle and district heating sectors, in fact, applied the Protection of vulnerability (the former Greater tutelage) to this category. This means the application of variable tariffs, updated quarterly by Arera.
Finally, vulnerable customers exposed to market fluctuations with variable tariffs will be able to switch to the more convenient Gradual Protections (Getty Images)
What electricity suppliers must do
Arera therefore disposes of the electricity operators of the Gradual Protection Service (STG), they will have to publish the useful information to join the service on their websites by February 23rd. This information includes:
- the available contact channels (telephone, digital and physical branches) to request information and submit the application
- the necessary documentation, including self-certification forms to certify the vulnerability requirements
- the references of the toll-free number of the Consumer Help Desk and the dedicated section of the Arera website (800 166 654).
Vulnerable consumers they have until June 30, 2025 to request access to the STG. Anyone who does not apply by this date will lose this opportunity.
What is the Gradual Protection Service
The Gradual Protection Service it is the market into which non-vulnerable consumers have converged who, at the end of Greater Protection, had not chosen a free market operator. Thanks to favorable economic conditions, However, it has turned into a “temporary refuge”, a convenient solution for many.
The absurdity of better prices for the non-vulnerable
The reverse auctions to select the service managers, in fact, have led to advantageous conditions for these customers, with one difference of 132 euros in favor of the STG compared to the Protection of Vulnerability. Hence, the paradoxical situation experienced by truly vulnerable customers. Finally, it has been remedied. The transition to the Gradual Protection Service also represents, for this category of people, a concrete opportunity to reduce electricity costs and avoid market fluctuations. It is important, however, to act promptly, respecting the deadline of 30 June 2025.
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