27/10/2026

For the fifth consecutive year, ERSE - the Energy Services Regulatory Authority has joined forces with the Senior Census operation, carried out annually by the GNR (the National Republican Guard), to support the most vulnerable elderly members of the community. This year, the operation took place in Sertã, Castelo Branco.

The outreach initiative, which took place on 20 October 2026, involved visiting a number of elderly people living in isolation in the municipality of Sertã, in the district of Castelo Branco. According to GNR data, the municipality has around 220 elderly people identified as living alone and in vulnerable circumstances.

The aim is to raise awareness amongst this more isolated group about self-protection measures and to reinforce their sense of security. Meanwhile, in the energy sector, ERSE provided advice on consumer rights regarding electricity and bottled gas, tips on saving energy, and safety precautions regarding the use of bottled gas.

To further facilitate the sharing of information, an information pack containing advice and warnings from both organisations, along with their respective support contact details for queries and complaints, was distributed. The pack also included a card-shaped magnifying glass.

The GNR’s ‘Censos Sénior 2026’ operation has been taking place across the country since 1 October. This initiative involves patrols and awareness activities targeting the approximately 43,000 elderly individuals identified nationwide.

ERSE has partnered with the GNR on this initiative since 2021, taking part in information sessions and distributing leaflets to help improve energy literacy and protect older people from potential scams in the energy sector.