Source: Freepik Author: Redaction In the last 30 years, Portugal has witnessed a gradual increase in the well-being of the population, approaching the patterns observed in the European Union. This positive trend was revealed in an analysis recently conducted by Banco de Portugal (BdP), which highlights an average annual increase of 2.7% in the welfare index between 1995 and 2022. This index considers a variety of factors, including per capita consumption, leisure time, life expectancy and inequality, providing a more comprehensive view of social progress beyond simple per capita GDP. The increase in well-being in Portugal is mainly attributed to the growth of per capita consumption and the extension of life expectancy. Significant contributions of 1.3 percentage points from each were observed, while the reduction of inequality also played an important role, albeit to a lesser extent. However, the impact of leisure time on well-being was neutral, indicating a need for further analysis to better understand this aspect. Although growth in the welfare index is a common trend across the European Union, Portugal is still below the EU average. This is evidenced by the difference of 1.5 percentage points between the average growth of the welfare index and GDP per capita in Portugal, the third largest deviation among EU countries. However, isolating the year 2022, it turns out that the welfare index in Portugal reached 87% compared to the EU average, suggesting significant progress over the last decades. The analysis highlights that although Portugal still falls short of some indicators compared to other EU countries, such as per capita consumption, the country rises in the ranking when considering the welfare index. This is mainly due to the greater weight of consumption in GDP in Portugal and the greater life expectancy of the population.
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction More than 5,000 people stopped receiving unemployment benefit last year, according to a report by the appeals committee of the Institute for Employment and Professional Training (IEFP), which led to 675 complaints being lodged. At the root of this cut-off may be alleged faults at CTT, a problem that has been going on for years but still doesnt seem to have a solution. Unemployment in Portugal has been growing, influenced by factors such as the slowdown in the economy, rising inflation and interest rates, international uncertainty and an apparent full return to normality in a post-pandemic context, with 317,659 people registered with the IEFP at the end of the year, which is 9% more than in 2022. As a result, the number of unemployed people receiving unemployment benefit also rose, albeit less sharply, from 151,521 in 2022 to 151,995 in 2023, an increase of 0.3%. On the other hand, fewer people had their unemployment benefit canceled for failing to comply with the duties laid down by law , including, in particular, attending summonses, undergoing vocational training or the duty to accept suitable employment. Even so, unemployment benefit was cut to 5,403 people, resulting in a drop of 7.1% compared to 2022, the year in which cancellations reached a 10-year high. Of these more than 5,000 people, 2,564 were registered with the Lisbon and Tagus Valley services , the region with the highest number of cancellations. On the opposite side is the Alentejo, with the lowest number of cancellations of unemployment benefit. CTT may be at the root of the defaults that lead to annulments The reasons behind a cancellation of unemployment benefit may be related to the duties laid down in the law, which include failure to call the employment services, failure to monitor the duty to actively seek employment, refusal of suitable employment or unjustified withdrawal from vocational training. In the last year, the number of appeals filed with the vice-coordinating bodies of the IEFPs appeals commission has fallen, something which, as a direct reflection, may be linked to the complaints related to cuts in subsidies, also resulting from failures at CTT . According to the data, 57.3% of people claim never to have received a call from the employment services , which may be the result, in some cases, of a change of address of the beneficiary or failures on the part of the post office. Even so, the appeals committee stresses that it has been possible to respond to many constraints and doubts about the effective delivery of IEFP correspondence to its users, although the same problems persist. Read more: Companies show signs of slowdown in recruitment
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Social Security is modernising its structures with a new configuration that allows easy remote access to the platform , which is permanently available every day and can be accessed from any mobile device, computer or tablet. This is E-clic , available to citizens and companies. This novelty aims to improve the experience of dealing with the organisation, offering faster responses to citizens and, as the apps motto suggests, E-clic makes known a simpler, more modern Social Security, closer to you. Available on the Android and iOS operating systems, this platform allows you to register your contact details and make requests, which you can then consult in real time, checking their status. There is also the possibility of contacting an assistant or requesting an appointment. However, it is a digital channel that facilitates contact with the organisation by speeding up requests for information and clarification, as well as reporting complaints . How do I access E-clic? As this is a service integrated into Segurança Social Direta , you will need to access E-clic using your credentials on the Segurança Social website and, once logged in, click on the Profile option in the top menu on the right-hand side. Then select the E-clic Contacts option and enter the platform, where you can choose various topics on which you can request clarification or information by filling in a form. To submit requests on the platform, all you have to do is follow the steps described above to log in and, once inside the platform, select the Create request option . You will need to enter a description of the topic you want to deal with, defining a subject, as well as filling in the categories Life Event, Subject and Reason. Once the subject has been described, you should check that everything it says is clear, confirm your selection and, if necessary, attach any requested documents , which you can do in the Documents to be delivered category. Finally, you can submit your request. Once submitted, it will have a number associated with it, which you can check to see what stage its at. Did you find this new feature interesting? Read also: Energy certificates: how they work and their importance
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Cascais has now been recognised as a Green Destination , a platinum award given by the Green Destinations Foundation during the ITB tourism fair in Berlin. The organisation, which promotes sustainability in tourist destinations, distinguished the Portuguese municipality with the green award, certifying it as a sustainable tourist destination according to the environmental, economic, cultural, social and management criteria chosen for the award. In a press release, the municipality said that this is great recognition for the regions sustainable approach to tourism. The Platinum certification level is awarded to tourist destinations that are guided by a code of ethics, that rigorously monitor tourism, that are based on strategic planning and that have sustainability indicators for tourism . The Municipal Director of Environment and Sustainability for Cascais City Council, Luís Almeida Capão , added: This award recognises Cascais as a destination with great environmental quality , not just because of the environmentally fair solutions it offers to the people who live here. Cascais aims to be the best place to live for a day, a week or a lifetime, which is why we have increased the area of green spaces, the number of trees planted and we have seen an increase in biodiversity, both in protected and urban areas. Community gardens, soft mobility, free non-polluting public transport and energy creation are all part of Cascais present. This award recognises the work that has been done. Cascais has stood out over the years for its commitment to sustainability, which has also been evident in the various awards and certifications it has received. From taking home the QualityCoast Silver award in 2013 to the most recent one in 2021, the municipality has shown its commitment to continuing to protect the environment and the well-being of its community. Also related to this topic: Companies prioritise sustainability, but investment is lacking , Renewable energy achieves one of the best records in Europe and APPII calls for the creation of more green financing lines
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Taking lunchboxes to work is a common practice among the Portuguese. Thats why, in a statement sent to SUPERCASA Notícias , energy tariff specialist Selectra has done the maths for you: find out how much you spend preparing six different dishes and two desserts. Lets imagine that you start the week by preparing a beautiful salmon with vegetables and take the opportunity to make three portions of strawberry jelly. The electricity consumed for these two dishes is €0.17 on the free market and €0.18 on the regulated market . If the next day you prefer, for example, tofu à brás, it will cost you €0.05 on the free market and on the regulated market, using one of the three portions of gelatine you made. In the middle of the week, you could opt for grilled meat with rice and vegetables and chocolate chip biscuits for dessert. In this case, youll spend 0.21€ for the main course and dessert on the free market and 0.23€ on the regulated market. If you work 6 days a week, youll spend 0.71€ of electricity on the free market and 0.76€ on the regulated market for the six dishes and six portions of the suggested desserts. Did you find this content interesting? Read more topics like this in SUPERCASA Notícias
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction According to the press release sent to SUPERCASA Notícias , REN - Redes Energéticas Nacionais recorded a solid operating performance in 2023, both domestically and internationally. EBITDA increased by 5.5% to €514.0m in 2023, as a result of the improvement in domestic activity (+€19.3m), where a reduction in operating costs stands out; as well as the positive contribution of international activity (+€7.4m). Net income totalled €149.2m, with recurring net income reaching €125.0m (+15.1% compared to 2022). This performance is the result of improved operating activity (EBITDA +26.7M€) and financial results (+3.4M€), despite the increase in the average cost of debt. It also reflects non-recurring effects, namely the recovery of revenues from international activity and tax impacts. The increase in operating activity was accompanied by a 4% growth in internal teams , with the companys current staff having been strengthened to 748. The strong increase in CAPEX, to €301.5M (+49.6% on the previous year), reflects RENs focus and commitment to the energy transition and its support for the countrys energy policy. Transfers to RAB also accelerated in 2023, with growth of €59.3m (+36.3% compared to the previous year), with the recovery of some project delays recorded in 2022. Net debt (excluding tariff deviations) fell by 4.8% to €2,421.2m, despite the average cost of debt rising to 2.5% (1.8% in 2022). In February 2024, REN issued its second green bond, totalling 300 million euros, with a maturity of 8 years and demand 7 times higher than supply. In 2023, according to the information SUPERCASA Notícias had access to, electricity consumption remained relatively stable (50.7TWh) compared to the previous year, while natural gas consumption fell by 20.7 per cent (to 49.0TWh), the lowest figure since 2014. Energy from renewable sources accounted for 60.6 per cent of total energy supply (49.3 per cent in 2022), a record year in Portugal, broken down by 25 per cent wind, 23 per cent hydro, 7 per cent solar and 6 per cent biomass. Also noteworthy was the 43 per cent growth (compared to the previous year) in solar energy production , with REN playing a key role in the process of integrating these renewable sources into the national electricity system, making it possible to meet the targets for the transition to renewable energy sources. Sustainability remained one of RENs priorities in 2023. The company updated its approach after conducting a new stakeholder consultation, directing efforts towards combating climate change, investing in Natural, Human and Social capital, and adopting responsible governance practices. Read on: Portuguese reveal concern about mobility and Electric cars: how does home charging work?
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction With the growing popularity of electric vehicles , understanding the charging process at home is crucial for homeowners looking to make the transition to a more sustainable option. In this SUPERCASA Notícias article, well explore in detail how electric car charging works in domestic environments. Charging at home Charging an electric vehicle at home offers owners convenience and savings , but requires a clear understanding of the process and requirements involved. Charging an electric vehicle doesnt just require a conventional socket , as these are not prepared to withstand long charging sessions with high currents, in addition to charging at an average of 10 Amps, which means that it would take 6 to 8 hours to charge the equivalent of 100 kilometres of range. Charging station For faster and more efficient charging, we recommend investing in a home charging station. As well as being easy to install, these devices offer significantly reduced charging times and guarantee a charge of between 40 minutes and 4 hours for 100 kilometres of range , depending on the power of the charger chosen. Installation Process Installing a charging station at home involves assessing the site , ensuring technical feasibility and the suitability of the existing electrical installation. Although some modifications may be necessary, in many cases there is no need to significantly alter the existing electrical infrastructure. Which charger to choose? There are several charger options available on the market, varying in terms of power and functionality. Its important to choose a charger that is compatible with your homes electrical installation and the specific needs of your electric vehicle. What is the best time to charge the car? Taking advantage of advantageous hourly rates can help minimise charging costs. As such, we suggest checking your electricity tariff so that you can charge your vehicle during the lowest tariff hours, which can result in significant savings in the long term. How does condo charging work? For electric vehicle owners who live in condominiums, its essential to understand the options available for charging. This includes considering the type of car park, the power supply and the possibility of sharing or having a dedicated charging point. Charging electric cars at home offers a convenient and economical way to keep vehicles fuelled. With the proper installation of a home charging station and the choice of the right charger, owners can enjoy an efficient and smooth charging experience , contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. In SUPERCASA Notícias we help you understand other sustainability issues. Read on: Passive Houses: what are they and what are the advantages? and Sustainable domestic appliances: an investment with a return
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Fraud is on the rise in Portugal , according to figures from the European Public Prosecutors Office (EPPO) revealed this Friday, March 1, which say that in 2023 26 investigations were opened with this entity, bringing the total number of active investigations to 43. The loss is around 928.6 million euros, with VAT fraud accounting for almost the entire amount. According to the data, the 26 investigations opened in 2023 represent an estimated loss to the EU budget of 186.6 million euros and, of the 43 active investigations, 15 concern VAT fraud, with an estimated loss of 848.5 million euros. Portugal has thus charged 27 defendants with crimes of criminal association, corruption, money laundering and tax fraud, in which an estimated 80 million euros is involved through a chain of companies that failed to pay VAT , through the use of false invoices and fraudulent tax returns , says the EPPO. Even so, there is no record of any concluded case in this area , only the Operation Admiral case, which is currently at the trial stage. Find all the latest news in SUPERCASA News!
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction Mobile voting is a method that the Portuguese can opt for, only having to register in advance for this purpose, and which has been running since last Sunday, 25 February, until this Thursday, 28 February. Thus, registered voters in Portugal can register to vote in advance, in a municipality of their choice, on a mobile basis. This vote must be cast on 3 March , one week before the elections. To access this mobility, voters must register at a polling station of their choice in a municipality on the mainland or in the autonomous regions of the Azores and Madeira, on the governments website or by post sent to the General Secretariat of the Ministry of Internal Administration. According to the data, early voting in mobility was chosen by 285,848 in the 2022 legislative elections. Follow more topics on SUPERCASA News
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction In a study carried out by the EasyPark parking app, the majority of Portuguese (55.3%) admit that the lack of parking is the biggest mobility problem in their cities. However, its not the only one. According to EasyParks Report on mobility and parking habits in Portugal, 47.3% of those surveyed consider excessive traffic to be the second biggest problem, and 42% the lack of available public transport. On the other hand, 60% of the drivers interviewed say that regulated parking is beneficial for their city, which means that they prefer surface and paid parking to other alternatives , considering that they help to improve the flow of traffic in metropolitan areas. As with the low-emission zones that are springing up in Portugal, Portuguese drivers are beginning to realize that proper parking management has a positive impact on the overall mobility of cities, says EasyParks Director for Portugal, Jennifer Amador Tavares de Sousa. She adds: In all urban areas there is a concern for drivers when they travel to cities, as well as for administrators who need to find solutions to this problem. Parking apps help to balance supply and demand so that there are fewer cars driving around and looking for parking spaces, which is a contribution to improving these symptoms of pressure on drivers and cities. Regarding the importance of this study, which is relevant to improving mobility in cities, Jennifer de Sousa says: we know how important it is to have this information for everyone involved in the commitment to make cities more liveable and with a pleasant and efficient parking ecosystem. When we ask drivers about their concerns, its because we are fully involved in making urban environments more attractive to live in and we are aware that technology is at the service of drivers so that they can have a more simplified and mobile life, she concludes. Read more topics like this in SUPERCASA News
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction In the quest for tranquillity and harmony at home, we often underestimate the impact that organising a space can have on our well-being. From decoration to daily cleaning, every detail counts when it comes to creating an environment conducive to relaxing and recharging. SUPERCASA Notícias gives you four tips for keeping your space organised and welcoming: 1. Minimalist decor Adopt the less is more philosophy when decorating your space. Instead of overloading the room with a profusion of objects, opt for a minimalist approach. Choose essential items and avoid strong colours that can cause visual noise. By reducing the amount of visual stimuli in the room, you reduce stress and agitation, providing a sense of space and calm. 2. Tidiness and cleanliness Keeping your space clean and organised not only promotes a feeling of calm and tranquillity, it also improves the quality of the air you breathe. Choose to clean your space with small daily tasks that allow you to get rid of clutter and dust, reducing the stress and anxiety caused by the accumulation of household chores. 3. Keep the house ventilated Dont underestimate the power of good ventilation. Leaving windows open regularly is key to keeping fresh air circulating and avoiding unpleasant odours and bacteria in the room. In addition, proper ventilation helps prevent damp-related health problems such as mould and bacteria, especially in areas such as the bathroom and kitchen. 4. Use organiser baskets Organiser baskets are valuable allies in the fight against clutter. Versatile and practical, they can be used to store a variety of items, from toys to kitchen utensils. To maximise efficiency, adopt a colour scheme to differentiate the baskets in different rooms and dont forget to label them to make it easier to identify the contents. By following these simple tips, youll be well on your way to creating an organised, welcoming space conducive to relaxation and well-being. Looking for more tips for the home? Read also: Have a small house? 5 tips to make it look bigger or Decorating tips for homes with pets
Source: Freepik Author: Redaction The Energy Saving Plan (PPE 2022 - 2023) has caused natural gas consumption in Portugal to fall, with a 22% drop between August 2022 and December 2023 , compared to the historical average of the last five periods, as ADENE - the Energy Agency - announced on Wednesday, February 21. According to the agency, and including the month of January this year, Portugal exceeded the target set in Regulation 2023/706 of March 30, 2023 (15%) by 36.9%. Initially in force until December 2023, the 2022-2023 EPP aimed to save 672 million cubic meters (mcm), and 1,872 mcm were saved during the period in question, which represents a 178.6% overrun. Related: Energy is no longer the main cause of gas emissions
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