ADENE Fees 2026 – Energy Certification Prices in Portugal

ADENE Fees and Energy Certification

ADENE fees apply to the issuance of the Energy Performance Certificate, a mandatory document that assesses the energy efficiency of buildings and individual units in Portugal. This certificate indicates the property’s energy rating (from A+ to F), estimated energy consumption, and recommendations to improve energy performance.

The system is managed by ADENE – the Portuguese Energy Agency, within the framework of the Energy Certification System (SCE), and is legally required in several situations, including sale, lease, or major renovation works.

What are ADENE fees?

ADENE fees correspond to the registration cost of the Energy Performance Certificate on the SCE Portal. These amounts are established by Government decree and are independent of the fees charged by the qualified expert responsible for carrying out the certification.

In 2026, the reduced fees introduced by Ministerial Order No. 39/2016 of 7 March remain in force.

ADENE Fees in Force for 2026

Residential Buildings

• T0 and T1: €28.00

• T2 and T3: €40.50

• T4 and T5: €55.00

• T6 or higher: €65.00

Commercial and Services Buildings

• Area ≤ 250 m²: €135.00

• Area > 250 m² and ≤ 500 m²: €350.00

• Area > 500 m² and ≤ 5,000 m²: €750.00

• Area > 5,000 m²: €950.00

Note: All amounts are subject to VAT at the applicable legal rate.

How much does an Energy Performance Certificate cost?

The total cost of an Energy Performance Certificate consists of two components:

Qualified Expert’s Fees

These fees are not regulated and vary according to the type, size, and complexity of the property.

ADENE Fee (SCE Portal registration)

A fixed amount established by law, determined by the building’s typology or surface area.

Exemption from ADENE fees: when is it possible?

Exemption from ADENE fees may apply if:

• The property already holds a valid Energy Performance Certificate (less than 10 years old);

• The recommended energy improvement measures have been implemented;

• Following the works, the building achieves at least an energy rating of B-.

When is the Energy Performance Certificate mandatory?

The Energy Performance Certificate is mandatory for:

• New buildings;

• Buildings undergoing major renovation works;

• Sale, lease, transfer of business, or transfer in lieu of payment;

• Large commercial and services buildings;

• Public buildings frequently visited by the public;

• Access to financing schemes or tax incentives where certification is required.

Mandatory display of the Energy Performance Certificate

The certificate must be displayed in a visible location in:

• Large commercial and services buildings;

• Public buildings with a usable floor area exceeding 250 m² and frequent public access.

Validity of the Energy Performance Certificate

• Residential buildings: 10 years

• Pre-certificates: 10 years

• Large commercial and services buildings (GES): 8 years

• First certificates for new or deeply renovated GES: 3 years

In specific cases, validity may be reduced to 1 year.

How to obtain an Energy Performance Certificate

Since November 2019, ADENE has made available to Qualified Experts a set of official documents containing instructions for completing the forms required for the issuance of Energy Performance Certificates, in accordance with the Residential Buildings Regulation (REH), the Commercial and Services Buildings Regulation (RECS), and Ruin Declarations for SCE purposes. These documents are available exclusively to accredited professionals through the restricted area of the SCE platform.

To obtain an Energy Performance Certificate, you must:

• Select a Qualified Expert accredited by ADENE;

• Gather the necessary property documentation;

• Allow a technical site visit;

• Validate the certificate issued on the SCE Portal.

Energy certification is a fundamental legal requirement for property owners and buyers.

Our team includes ADENE-certified Qualified Experts, available to clarify any questions and to support you throughout the entire process of issuing and developing your Energy Performance Certificate. Please contact us for further information.

Sources
ADENE – Portuguese Energy Agency
Energy Certification System (SCE)
Ministerial Order No. 39/2016 of 7 March
Energy Performance Regulation for Residential Buildings (REH)
Energy Performance Regulation for Commercial and Services Buildings (RECS)

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation of the applicable legislation, nor does it substitute legal or technical advice from duly qualified professionals. Please contact MJARC Arquitetos for professional advice from certified experts.