The Ministry of Mines and Energy announced on March 19 the adoption of new measures for essential public services of gas and electricity, following the publication of Decree No. 242 of 2026. The decree is part of the response to the State of Economic Emergency.
The new regulations are intended to support users whose properties were affected by the recent economic, social, and ecological emergency in certain departments listed in Article 1 of Decree 0150 of 2026. Service providers for essential household gas delivered through pipelines are now prohibited from charging or billing these users until their properties have been restored to functional conditions and service can be safely resumed.
For charges incurred before the declaration of emergency, providers must offer payment deferrals or other payment mechanisms to affected users in socioeconomic strata 1 and 2 over a period of twelve months. This period may be extended if both parties agree.
Additionally, when user-owned equipment such as meters or connections has been damaged but restored by service providers, those providers must also offer payment facilities over a period ranging from twelve to thirty-six months.
The Ministry will also set guidelines for contracting and expanding natural gas supply from producers, marketers, and importers. These steps aim to ensure fuel gas supply and positively impact tariffs for pipeline gas users in affected areas while preventing prolonged effects on other regions.
