The National Commission for State Regulation of Energy and Public Utilities in Ukraine (NERC) has raised the price caps for short-term electricity market segments, effective January 17, 2026. This adjustment aims to enhance the balance of electricity generation and imports during peak demand hours.
According to the acting CEO of Ukrhydroenergo, the alignment of price caps has facilitated increased imports of electricity, particularly during periods of scarcity. He noted, “When the price caps were equalized, it helped attract imports, allowing for a more balanced operational schedule as we incorporate European electricity into our system alongside our own generation.”
The increase in imports has contributed to a more even distribution of load between domestic generation and external supplies, especially during peak hours. This change is expected to improve the overall efficiency of the energy system.
As part of the regulatory changes, the upper price cap for all hours in the day-ahead and intraday markets has been raised to 15,000 UAH/MWh. This adjustment is anticipated to have a significant impact on import levels, as highlighted by ExPro Electricity’s analysis.
NERC Chairman Yuriy Vlasenko also pointed out that the increase in spot market price limits has resulted in a reduction of power outages by approximately one and a half cycles, further indicating the positive effects of the new pricing structure.
The recent increase in electricity price caps in Ukraine aims to enhance import levels and improve the balance of domestic generation. This regulatory change is expected to reduce power outages and optimize energy distribution during peak demand periods.