Updated Regulations on Utility Payments During Martial Law
The Ukrainian government has introduced new guidelines regarding the payment of utility bills amid the ongoing martial law, effective from 2024. These changes include ending the broad moratorium on utility payments at the close of 2023, while maintaining protections for specific groups. Since February 24, 2022, penalties and late fees have been prohibited, and utility services such as electricity, water, gas, and heating cannot be disconnected due to unpaid bills.
At the end of 2023, Ukraine amended its moratorium decree, limiting its application to certain citizens only. Households located in temporarily occupied regions are exempt from paying for utilities during officially recognized periods of occupation. The Ministry of Community and Territorial Development determines these dates. For instance, residents of Kherson were not billed for utilities between March 1 and November 11, 2022, whereas in Zalizne, Donetsk region, bills have not been issued since February 2025 and continue to be withheld.
Exemptions and Partial Payment Provisions
Customers whose homes have been damaged or destroyed due to Russian military actions are exempt from paying gas distribution fees. The National Energy and Utilities Regulatory Commission has approved waivers for these consumers, also suspending charges for maintenance of internal gas supply systems. During this exemption period, affected households are not required to submit monthly gas meter readings.
Households located in active combat zones are shielded from fines, interest charges, inflation adjustments, and annual penalties. Additionally, utility services cannot be suspended for non-payment during hostilities. Similar safeguards apply to residents of temporarily occupied territories and owners of war-damaged housing, provided they notify authorities. Forced debt collection from internally displaced persons (IDPs) who registered their status and submitted documents confirming their absence from their property is prohibited for debts accrued after February 24, 2022. This protection remains valid throughout the official duration of hostilities in the area of displacement and the occupation period as defined by the government.
However, these protections do not cover debts incurred before February 24, 2022. The martial law measures do not include automatic cancellation of utility debts. If outstanding debts exceed 680 hryvnias and remain unpaid for over three months, individuals risk losing eligibility for housing subsidies. To maintain or regain subsidy benefits, they must negotiate a debt restructuring agreement with their service provider.
These reforms demonstrate Ukraine's commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations throughout the protracted conflict. By tailoring support to account for the unique circumstances imposed by war, the government aims to preserve essential living conditions for those most affected. This evolving policy framework reflects ongoing efforts to balance social protection with fiscal responsibility during martial law.