Portugal’s increasing commitment to electric mobility has been accompanied by a significant strengthening of the regulatory framework applicable to the sector. In this context, Ordinance no. 118/2026/1, of 19 March, has been enacted, setting out the terms of the mandatory civil liability insurance applicable to operators of charging points (“CPOs”), under the Legal Framework for Electric Mobility.
Under this new regime, all entities carrying out the operation of charging points are required to take out civil liability insurance covering damage caused to third parties in the course of their activities.
This obligation constitutes an essential requirement for the lawful operation of such activities, aiming to ensure user protection and market safety.
The minimum coverage amounts vary depending on the characteristics and capacity of the charging points operated, and are set, in particular, at:
(a) €250,000 for normal power charging points,
(b) €375,000 for high-power charging points up to 150 kW, and
(c) €500,000 for higher power charging points or other situations.
It should also be noted that these amounts will be subject to annual adjustment in line with the consumer price index, requiring ongoing monitoring by operators.
The insurance contract must be concluded for a minimum period of one year and may be automatically renewed, unless otherwise agreed by the parties.
This new legal requirement is particularly relevant for operators in the electric mobility sector, energy companies, investors, and entities involved in the installation and operation of charging infrastructure. Ensuring full compliance with these requirements is essential in order to mitigate regulatory and operational risks.
In this context, the Corporate and Commercial Law Department of Belzuz Abogados, S.L.P. is fully available to assist its clients with the analysis of the applicable legal framework, compliance requirements, support in the procurement of appropriate insurance, and ongoing legal assistance in relation to operations within the electric mobility sector.
Belzuz Abogados, S.L.P. is an international law firm, headquartered in Madrid, with offices in Lisbon and Porto, and is fully available to assist clients in complex legal matters, with a particular focus on obtaining the mandatory licence for operators of electric vehicle charging points in Portugal.