The Slovak government will continue subsidising household energy costs in 2026, but with a new twist: the scheme will be “targeted” at households officially deemed to be in need. Critics, however, argue the plan is little more than a costly handout designed to buy support.

From blanket aid to “targeted” subsidies

On October 1, Slovak MPs approved a new law on energy assistance under a fast-tracked procedure. Starting in January, the current across-the-board compensation scheme will end, replaced by targeted subsidies. The government estimates that around 90 percent of households will still qualify, with final eligibility to be determined through a new national residents’ register.

The scheme is expected to cost €435 million in 2026, money that Prime Minister Robert Fico has said could be drawn from unused EU funds. Without aid, officials warn, household energy bills could rise by about 30 percent next year.

Since late 2022, Slovakia has already spent over €4 billion cushioning households from surging gas, electricity and heating costs. In 2025 alone, the cost of subsidies is projected at about €235–238 million.

Opposition: “Not targeted, just wasteful”

Opposition parties Progressive Slovakia (PS) and the Christian Democrats (KDH) condemned the plan, insisting that nearly universal eligibility undermines the idea of targeting.

“This assumes that 90 to 95 percent of Slovaks are poor, which is absurd,” said PS MP Ján Hargaš. He also raised privacy concerns about the planned national register, which will collect income and property data from all citizens to assess eligibility.

KDH went further, calling the scheme an “energy bribe”. “Instead of insulating homes or modernising heating systems, the government has chosen to burn EU money in boilers while pretending it is helping everyone,” said KDH MP Martin Šmilňák.

EU funds under scrutiny

Critics also object to financing the program with EU funds meant for development projects. They argue the subsidies may ease bills in the short term but fail to address Slovakia’s long-term energy inefficiency.

The government insists the scheme is essential to protect households from soaring energy costs. The opposition counters that real reforms — such as a housing allowance, or investments in energy efficiency — would be cheaper and more sustainable.