Electricity and gas prices have been updated since May 1. How does the new system work, and what benefits are provided for those in need?
From May 1, 2025, a new stage begins in the energy market of Uzbekistan - tariffs for electricity and gas have been revised. It was noted that the main principle of the new system is to encourage resource conservation, ensure social justice, and protect vulnerable segments of the population.
Tariffs will be introduced in a differentiated manner. Although this may seem complicated at first glance, in reality, each consumer pays based on their own expenses.
The principle of "use more - pay more" in electricity
According to the new tariffs, if the monthly consumption is up to 200 kWh, electricity will be sold for 600 soums. Previously, it was 450 soums. This is the lowest rate.
But for those who consume more than 200 kW, prices will gradually increase. For example:
- 201-500 kWh - 800 sum,
- 501-1000 kWh - 1000 sum,
- 1001-5000 kWh - 1500 sum,
- more than 10 thousand kWh - 2000 soums.
This system is expected to limit excessive resource consumption. At the same time, the cheapest tariffs are offered for energy-saving users.
Relatively lower tariffs are applied to residents of multi-story buildings with electric stoves. In this group, up to 200 kWh costs 300 soums, and in subsequent stages - up to 1000 soums.
Gas tariffs will be set depending on the season and the amount of consumption.
Natural gas prices are also divided into two seasons:
- November-February (heating season)
- March-October (no heating period)
Gas consumption of up to 500 cubic meters during the heating season is set at 1000 soums. This is a 53% increase from the previous 650 soums. For those who consume more than 10,000 cubic meters, the price reaches up to 3,000 soums.
During the spring and summer months, tariffs for low consumption will remain, but prices for high consumption will rise again.
The price of liquefied gas will increase from 1600 to 2000 soums per kg.
A compensation system for those in need will be launched.
One of the important aspects of the reform is the introduction of a mechanism for protecting low-income families. From May 1, 2025, to April 1, 2027, compensation will be allocated to certain categories of the population.
Families of this category:
- 150 kWh of electricity per month,
- 250 cubic meters (in winter),
- The difference in tariffs for the consumption of 150 cubic meters of natural gas (in summer) is covered by the state.
This approach is intended to reduce financial pressure on low-income families.
Is the main goal behind the numbers energy market reform? Or...
The liberalization of energy tariffs is a strategic decision that has been tested in world practice and serves to stabilize the economy. In Uzbekistan, this process is being implemented in stages.
The rise in prices, on the one hand, may seem burdensome to the social strata of the population, but on the other hand, it serves to save, spend wisely, and reduce government spending.
The most important thing is that the most vulnerable segments of the population are not ignored in this system.
Expected reform, cautious steps
In conclusion, the new tariffs are causing various reactions in society. However, the Ministry of Energy and relevant agencies carefully planned the reform: through differentiated prices, resources will be saved, fair distribution will be established, and assistance to families in need will be maintained.
This is an important step that is not easy, but can be beneficial in the long term.
