The National Energy and Utilities Regulatory Commission (NEURC) is set to review a draft plan on Dec. 2 outlining new natural gas distribution tariffs for network operators in 2026.
The proposal envisages a phased price increase for industrial consumers and businesses, with hikes reaching up to 98% in some regions, ExPro reports.
Crucially, tariffs for households will remain unchanged due to the ongoing moratorium on utility rate hikes during martial law.
The breakdown
The new rates are calculated based on operator data, distribution volume forecasts, and justified expenses for network maintenance, salaries, and capital investment.
To avoid sudden shocks for customers, the regulator proposes a two-stage increase: starting Jan. 1 and April 1, 2026. On average, distribution tariffs for non-household consumers are projected to rise by 76% from April 1, 2026.
Top increases
The planned hikes vary significantly by region and operator:
PJSC Hadiachgas is expected to see the sharpest rise—jumping 98% to UAH 3.95 per cubic meter (excluding VAT) starting April 1, 2026.
The Zakarpattia branch of Gazmerezhi (Gas Distribution Networks of Ukraine) will see the smallest increase at 25% (UAH 2.48 per cubic meter).
The Dnipropetrovsk branch of Gazmerezhi faces the steepest spike in relative terms, with prices potentially soaring 2.9 times to UAH 3.66 per cubic meter from April 1, 2026.
Meanwhile, the Kharkiv city branch of Gas Distribution Networks of Ukraine will retain the lowest absolute tariff at UAH 0.78 per cubic meter, despite an 80% increase.
Final rates will be approved following public discussions and a definitive decision by the NEURC.