Unpaid electricity bills are creating significant challenges in the energy market, affecting transactions between participants. According to analyst Vіzіr, private investors are reluctant to invest in new generation capacities without assurance of timely payments for the electricity produced.
“Why? Because they understand that payment may not come for a year,” Vіzіr noted.
One of the main reasons for accumulating debts is the failure of municipal enterprises to pay their bills. Vіzіr identified Kharkiv’s municipal utility companies as some of the largest debtors in the balancing market.
The expert emphasized that non-payment for consumed electricity has a ripple effect on other market participants. “This is a problem—by not paying for electricity, they solve their own issues while creating problems for everyone else, including Kyiv and other stakeholders,” he explained.
Furthermore, Vіzіr stated that uncertainty regarding payments is hindering the establishment of necessary capacities essential for the energy system’s operation during critical moments.
Context
- Industry publication ExPro reported that as of the end of September 2026, the debt of NEC “Ukrenergo” to participants in the balancing market reached 36.7 billion UAH, increasing by almost 60% over the nine-month period.
