Athens Distributes 100 Free Air Conditioners to Vulnerable Households

The Municipality of Athens has launched a program to provide 100 free air conditioning units to vulnerable households, aiming to alleviate energy poverty and improve living conditions. This initiative is being carried out through the Office for Confronting Energy Poverty (GAEF) and is part of the European project ASCEND.

The program covers the free supply, transportation, and installation of energy-efficient Class A air conditioning units by certified technicians. Where technically feasible, the installation of electricity consumption meters is also included. This measure seeks to reduce the energy costs for low-income residents and enhance their comfort, particularly during periods of high temperatures.

Eligibility for the program is open to permanent residents of Athens who meet specific social and economic criteria. The selection process will utilize a points-based system, considering factors such as household income, family size, single-parent or large-family status, and the presence of elderly individuals or young children. Applications are being accepted exclusively online through a dedicated platform until July 19, 2026.

Athens Mayor Haris Doukas emphasized that access to decent living conditions should not be a privilege. He stated, "By providing the first 100 air conditioners, we support fellow citizens struggling with energy poverty, reduce their energy costs, and shield the city against the impacts of the climate crisis." Vangelis Marinakis, President of Athens Development, added that the goal is to transform European resources into tangible benefits for citizens, combining social support with energy efficiency upgrades.