Uzbekistan updates energy regulations, adjusts tariffs for overuse

The updated regulations amend the rules governing electricity and gas usage, specifically targeting payments for resources consumed beyond contractual volumes during the billing period. Since September 2024, a 1.2 multiplier has been applied to consumption that exceeds contractual limits by 20% or more.

Under the revised rules, the increased tariff now applies only to volumes consumed after the 20% threshold is surpassed. For instance, if the agreed monthly supply is 100,000 kWh, the higher tariff will apply only to consumption beyond 120,000 kWh.

Certain exemptions remain in place. Residential electricity consumers are exempt from these changes. For gas, the rules do not apply to automotive gas-filling compressor stations, thermal power plants (TPPs), or other strategically important enterprises.

The resolution also introduces new guidelines for handling electricity debt during the auction sale of real estate. Unless otherwise specified in the purchase agreement, responsibility for settling electricity debt will fall on the buyer.

These changes are part of broader efforts to encourage responsible energy use. In late December, the president instructed officials to reassess measures aimed at curbing wasteful energy consumption. Among the proposals is an option to allow debtors to repay their arrears in installments, reducing the risk of disconnection from the power grid.