Utility companies, such as KP "Ternopilvodokanal," are on the brink of a financial crisis due to the discrepancy between tariffs and actual expenses. The situation has become critical, with the enterprise already owing the Ministry of Finance about 80 million hryvnias due to outdated tariffs.
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SubscribeThe current tariffs were calculated based on prices from 2020-2021, while expenses have significantly increased. During this time, the price of electricity has surged by 50%, reagents have risen by four times, and fuel has doubled in price. However, in the tariffs for the population, the cost of electricity is still accounted for at the level of 5.62 UAH per kWh, while for other consumers, it is 8.51 UAH per kWh.
According to new calculations by economists, the actual cost of the service should be around 70 UAH per cubic meter of water. The National Commission for State Regulation of Energy and Public Utilities (NKREKU) recommended setting the tariff at least at the level of 58 UAH. However, the Cabinet of Ministers has kept the tariffs at their pre-war level, effectively blocking any increase.
The mayor of Ternopil, Sergey Nadal, stated that the situation requires immediate solutions to avoid potential disruptions in water supply.
“It is urgent to find a compromise on tariffs that will ensure stable water supply for Ternopil residents,” - emphasized Sergey.
Experts believe that the government's actions to artificially suppress tariffs could lead to the bankruptcy of water utilities across the country, as enterprises simply cannot bear the financial burden.
Previously, we reported that millions in debts are prompting tariff increases.
Water may become cheaper - read more on Znai.ua.