Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  Heating and hot water tariffs in Uzbekistan may see two increases in 2025, according to Ilkhom Turaev, Head of the Department for Operation and Development of Heating Systems at the Ministry of Construction and Housing and Communal Services.

This year, tariffs were raised once in the regions and twice in Tashkent, in April and November. Turaev stated that similar practices might extend to the regions in 2025 due to rising electricity and natural gas prices.

“In Tashkent, tariffs increased in November, and now a review is planned for the spring. In the regions, tariffs were raised only once this year, but next year they will be adjusted twice. This is necessary to cover losses in the heating sector, where a significant portion of expenses is subsidized by the state. Additional funding is required to modernize the system, ensure comfort, and sustain operations,” said Turaev.

According to preliminary forecasts, tariffs for heating and hot water in 2025 could increase twice, by 15% each time.

Turaev also emphasized the need to revise the payment system for heating. The Ministry has studied practices in South Korea and neighboring countries.

For example, South Korea employs a subscription-based model for maintaining a minimum level of heating in homes, regardless of occupancy.

“Many people wonder if they should pay for heating when they’re not at home. In Korea, there is a system similar to a mobile subscription fee. A fixed amount is charged to maintain a minimum level of heat in the home. If we implement a smart tariff policy, it will become clearer whether further increases are necessary,” Turaev explained.