Ukrainian Electricity Prices Set to Rise by One Hryvnia: Timing and Scale of the Increase

Changes to Ukraine's Electricity Tariffs

According to ХВИЛЯ: Electricity prices in Ukraine are expected to increase by approximately one hryvnia. In a YouTube interview published on February 12, 2026, on the PopenkoPro channel, expert Oleg Popenko shared his analysis of the situation. He stated that a fundamental decision to revise the tariffs has already been made, with the final approval now resting with the President's Office.

According to Popenko, following the increase, the cost per kilowatt-hour of electricity could range from 5.30 to 5.60 hryvnias. The current tariff stands at 4.32 hryvnias. The expert noted that this price hike is a necessary step to cover the costs of restoring the energy system, which has been heavily damaged by the ongoing war. He emphasized that the increase of about one hryvnia could come into effect as early as next year.

Funding for Energy System Restoration

Popenko also commented on funding for the energy system's restoration. In his view, raising tariffs is not the primary source of financing. He pointed out that funds are being attracted under state guarantees, not through tariff increases. The expert highlighted that, under wartime conditions and state regulation, market-based gas tariffs could be unfeasible. He suggested it would be more prudent to maintain state regulation for an additional six months after the war ends and then assess the population's ability to pay.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that the company 'Naftogaz' controls 95% of the gas market, while 'Energoatom' sells electricity on the exchange with a markup of 600-700%. These market structures are significant factors influencing the formation of electricity tariffs in Ukraine.

The potential rise in Ukraine's electricity tariffs could be a crucial step toward covering the immense costs of rebuilding the war-torn energy infrastructure. However, the expert stresses that tariff hikes are not the sole method for securing funding, and the future affordability for citizens must be carefully considered. This issue will remain pivotal as it directly impacts household budgets and the nation's broader economic stability.