Regulator raises gas distribution tariffs for businesses for 2026

The National Commission for Energy and Utilities Regulation (NKREKP) has raised gas distribution network operators’ tariffs for gas distribution services for non-residential consumers for 2026 for the first time since 2021. This was reported by Interfax Ukraine.

The relevant decision was made at a meeting of the regulator on December 19.

The increase will take place in stages – from January 1 and April 1.

According to NEURC estimates, the weighted average tariff of GDS operators for non-residential consumers will be (excluding VAT)

• from January 1 – UAH 1.56/cubic meter per month,
• from April 1 – UAH 1.89/cubic meter per month.

Thus, from April 1, tariffs will increase by an average of 62%, half of which is due to an increase in wages for gas distribution system operators’ employees and 12% to a decrease in gas distribution volumes.

Industry representatives generally supported the commission’s decision, although they noted that such an increase still does not correspond to economically sound calculations. At the same time, consumer representatives – steel industry – called the new tariffs excessive.

The list of gas distribution system operators whose tariffs are expected to increase includes almost 40 companies, most of which have not had their tariffs revised since 2021.

The level of the tariff increase is influenced, in particular, by gas distribution volumes and the necessary scope of work for the maintenance, upkeep, and operation of gas distribution systems.

It should be recalled that in November this year, the NEURC approved an increase in the electricity transmission tariff for 2026 – the decision was subject to further discussion for final approval.