СВІТЛО, ГАЗ і СУБСИДІЇ: які ЗМІНИ чекають українців у ТРАВНІ

Key Changes in Energy Tariffs from May 1, 2026

Electricity Tariff Updates

• The general electricity tariff for households remains unchanged at 4.32 UAH per kWh. However, the winter discount rate of 2.64 UAH per kWh for electric heating will be discontinued starting May 1, 2026.

• Previously, owners of electric heating enjoyed a reduced rate for the first 2000 kWh until the end of April; this benefit will no longer apply post-May.

Gas Pricing Stability

• A positive update regarding gas tariffs: Naftogaz Ukraine has extended the fixed tariff of 7.96 UAH per cubic meter (including VAT) from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027. This is significant given rising global gas prices.

Subsidy Adjustments

• The Pension Fund has initiated an automatic recalculation of subsidies for the non-heating season (May to September). Most recipients won't need to take action unless their financial situation or household composition changes.

• Those who have undergone changes in their household status or income must submit new applications or declarations online or in person to avoid issues with subsidy payments. Specific groups needing to reapply include displaced persons and families with fewer members than registered.

Important Notes on Subsidy Applications

Assistance for Fuel Purchases

• Households seeking assistance for purchasing liquefied gas or solid fuel must submit applications; this group may be small but often forgets about these requirements leading to complications later on.

Application Submission Methods

• Applications can be submitted online via the Pension Fund's portal or in person at local centers (ЦНАП). While some regions may vary in process, online submission is generally preferred and more efficient.

Child Benefits and Payments for Displaced Persons

Extended Deadline for Applications

• The deadline for displaced children's benefits renewal applications has been extended to June 1; timely submissions ensure that payments are backdated to February, potentially increasing total received funds if applied before this date.

Payment Conditions Based on Age

• Children under six years old will receive benefits regardless of parental income; those aged six to eighteen will have conditions based on residence and schooling location which should be verified regionally.

Utility Services and Inflation Insights

Local Utility Tariffs

• Water supply and waste management tariffs are set by local authorities rather than a national standard; residents should check their local water utility's website for current rates effective from May 1st onward.

Consumer Recommendations

• Consumers are advised to verify billing accuracy as discrepancies can occur; if necessary, they should file documents through the Pension Fund’s portal to adjust subsidies accordingly based on accurate consumption data.

Inflation Trends Affecting Consumers

Current Inflation Rates

• As of March, inflation accelerated to an annual rate of 7.9%, with monthly price increases recorded at approximately 1.7%. Fuel prices significantly contributed to this rise due to ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains globally.(392)

Factors Influencing Inflation

• Rising fuel costs were noted as a primary driver behind inflationary pressures observed in March and expected into April and May as well.(419)

Food Prices and Market Dynamics

Price Fluctuations

• Some food items like sugar have seen price reductions recently while others such as certain meats continue rising despite increased imports aimed at stabilizing market prices.(534)

Seasonal Effects on Produce Prices

• Seasonal produce prices are currently lower compared to last year but are expected to rise once existing stockpiles deplete as new crops come into play at higher market rates.(566)

Consumer Strategies Amid Rising Costs

Purchasing Recommendations

• In light of rising inflation trends, consumers are encouraged to purchase essential goods proactively before further price increases occur—this includes long-lasting products like toiletries and staple foods.(797)

Clothing Market Observations

• Unlike food prices which continue escalating rapidly due to daily necessity demands, clothing prices have stabilized partly due to decreased consumer spending habits influenced by economic conditions.(852)

Sales Opportunities

• Shoppers should not overlook sales events or promotions that could provide savings amidst overall price hikes across various sectors including utilities and groceries.(938)