The National Bank warns about a new increase in electricity and gas tariffs: when to expect changes.

The National Bank warns Ukrainians that in 2026, the country is expected to see a new increase in utility tariffs — in particular, for gas and electricity. The cost of energy resources will be part of the gradual alignment of domestic prices to market levels, taking into account agreements with international partners. According to the regulator's estimates, this will be one of the factors of inflationary pressure in the next year. The NBU emphasizes that the increase in tariffs is a forced measure to maintain the financial stability of the country.

Utility prices

Most Ukrainians are already feeling the price increases literally in every area of life — food, housing rent, healthcare. News about rising electricity and gas prices is particularly painful, as these are resources on which it is difficult to save without harming comfort or health. People pay attention to costs associated with the seasonal activity of electrical appliances, such as air conditioners. This means that any new tariff increase in summer or winter will be immediately noticeable. People try to adapt but have a clear idea of their spending limit. And while the current amount is acceptable, the risk of exceeding the 'comfortable budget' is real.

'For example, from the first of the month, I paid almost one and a half thousand hryvnias for utilities. But this includes the air conditioner and electricity. So this is quite an acceptable amount,' shared Anna.

People try to adapt but have a clear idea of their spending limit. Some compare the cost of living in different cities, which raises another important issue — inequality in utility costs across regions. Odessa, particularly in new buildings, may be more energy-efficient, which automatically reduces costs. In old high-rise buildings, utility bills often rise not because of tariffs, but due to losses and inefficiencies of the building. All this fuels a sense of injustice — when some pay less, even though they live in more comfortable conditions.

Electricity and gas bills

Many Ukrainians pay their bills as they are, without deep analysis, because they are tired of constant instability. But at the same time, there is tension in people's voices — even without counting precisely, you intuitively understand that the limit is close. For many Ukrainian families, it is already difficult to plan their budget even a month ahead. Conditions in which any increase seems like 'the last straw' provoke a loss of trust in the government's tariff policy. Furthermore, it exacerbates the overall feeling of financial helplessness.

'If electricity goes up, how can it go higher? We are not ready for increases, because this is already a ceiling. We ask: how can it go higher? But they still raise it,' reacts Elena.

Some have already come to terms with the fact that people have no real influence on tariff policy. And while everyone sees the costs, recognizing them as high, they simultaneously do not wish to change anything, especially regarding the quality of life. This is a typical urban dwellers' viewpoint: comfort is more important than savings, and 'getting by' is better than 'turning off the lights.'

'A third, probably, of our income goes to utilities. Of course, we wouldn't want an increase, but no one will ask us, so they will raise it — we'll pay. I think we won't save because we still need to live and use all the amenities. Maybe we would like to save specifically on utilities, but hardly. Reducing electricity usage won't work,' reflects Olya.

Tariff increases

People believe they will cope, but it's no longer confidence; rather, it's inertia. And while the authorities plan to raise tariffs, Ukrainians are preparing to simply 'survive.'

'We are not ready, but what can we do? How can you save here? We need to live, and then we will 'get by somehow.' Maybe we’ll eat less, I don’t know,' says Volodymyr.

The NBU's warning about the potential increase in tariffs in 2026 is already causing anxiety among Ukrainians. Most admit they are not mentally prepared for even higher utility costs. Some try to save, others have not yet realized the scale of possible changes, while some are already thinking about how to survive. Against this backdrop, the question of state support for the most vulnerable segments of the population becomes increasingly acute. For many Ukrainians, utility expenses are no longer just about comfort, but about the ability to maintain the essentials: warmth, light, and a dignified life.

Utility services in Ukraine are expected to rise in price in 2026 due to planned increases in electricity and gas tariffs. This will be a factor of inflationary pressure that will create tension among the population, which is already feeling financial pressure and anxiety about the future of their stability. Citizens are experiencing great fatigue from the constant rising prices and uncertainty in budgeting for the future. There is an emphasis on the injustice in service pricing across different regions of the country, which amplifies a feeling of helplessness and indifference from the authorities to the needs of citizens. Social tension is increasing, demanding urgent measures to support the most vulnerable segments of the population.