Uzbekistan may introduce discounted electricity tariffs in areas without natural gas
Residents of neighborhoods without access to the natural gas network could receive discounted electricity tariffs under a new government initiative aimed at supporting households that rely on electricity for heating.
Uzbekistan is considering implementing reduced electricity rates for regions that lack natural gas access.
This initiative stems from a July 27 video conference led by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. During the conference, officials received directives to evaluate the necessary infrastructure and extra power generation capacity required to convert heating systems to electricity in 1,916 neighborhoods currently not linked to the natural gas network.
Energy Minister Sherzod Khodjayev commented on the proposal, stating that approximately 2,000 neighborhoods throughout Uzbekistan are presently not served by the centralized natural gas supply system.
The minister further explained that the president has instructed the government to establish a system of customized electricity tariffs. This system would factor in regional circumstances and the availability of energy resources.
Khodjayev remarked, "Given that natural gas does not reach these areas, consumers who rely on electricity for heating are eligible for a discount."
Officials have been allotted a three-month period to determine the infrastructure enhancements and additional electricity capacity needed to transition heating systems to electric power in the 1,916 neighborhoods without gas.
The anticipated preferential tariff aims to alleviate financial strain on households in areas where electricity is the main heating source due to the unavailability of natural gas.