Some consumers began abusing the prohibition on debtor’s connections and did not pay their utility bills.
Because of the ban on disconnection by debtors, some consumers have abused it to avoid paying utility bills. This is what Energy Minister German Galushchenko said.
“We have seen that, unfortunately, some, say, both domestic and non-domestic consumers have begun to use this prohibition to not pay. Therefore, it is dishonest. It is especially dishonest when I see that the front-line regions pay more than the areas that are not involved in direct combat. I think it is at least unfair, “he said.
The minister noted that lifting the ban on disconnecting debtors does not mean that suppliers will start disconnecting everyone.
“It should at least improve the payment discipline, especially when it comes to cases that are impossible to explain, when you are just abusing the fact that you have the opportunity not to pay,” he said.
Galushchenko emphasizes that the quality and speed of resumption of electricity supply after bad weather depends on receiving funds for consumed electricity.
Let’s remember that at the end of December 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers lifted the moratorium on March 24, 2022 on disconnecting consumers of housing and community services in case of debt.
The moratorium continues to apply only to territories where hostilities continue or are under temporary occupation. In other areas, in the event of malicious non-payment of fees, consumers will again be charged fines and penalties.
As you know, from June 1 last year, the Cabinet of Ministers increased electricity tariffs for the population to 2.64 UAH/kWh. And on June 30, the price of electricity for business increased significantly in Ukraine.
In 2024, the electricity tariff for the population of Ukraine may increase by 15% – up to 3 hryvnias per kilowatt-hour.
Source: korrespondent
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