Utility tariffs as hidden taxes: expert revealed the scheme of where the money for utilities actually goes

Popenko explained that citizens' money for utility services is redirected to the state budget without ensuring the development of the sector. In particular, part of the funds from heating payments is used to pay for gas for Naftogaz through the utility company teplokommunenergo, after which the funds are consolidated through the state monopoly Naftogaz and go to the state budget.

Expert in the utility sector Oleg Popenko believes that utility tariffs in Ukraine have long turned into hidden taxes, which directly go to the state budget instead of developing infrastructure. He expressed this thought during a comment regarding plans to increase tariffs upon the recommendation of the IMF.

Indicating the lack of repairs and infrastructure development, the expert emphasized that the funds collected from the increase in tariffs are not used for improving utility infrastructure. Instead, they automatically go to pay for gas and other purposes, leaving the utility sector without necessary repairs and development.

In his statement, the expert called on government representatives to reconsider policy and support the social status of the population. He warned that the undesirable increase in utility tariffs could lead to a social explosion, as most Ukrainians already live beyond the poverty line by European standards.

Utility tariffs in Ukraine, according to the expert, have long become not only a tool for paying for services but also a way of collecting funds for the state budget, limiting the possibilities for the development of utility infrastructure and supporting the social interests of the population.