The Ukrainian industrial association, Ukrmetallurgprom, has formally requested the government to reconsider its recent decision to increase the mandatory electricity import quota for industrial consumers.
According to Cabinet Resolution No. 272, effective March 7, 2026, the required electricity import share will rise from 60% to 90% in order to prevent power restrictions for industries. This regulation is set to remain in effect until March 31, 2026.
Ukrmetallurgprom expressed concern that this decision does not reflect the current state of Ukraine’s Unified Energy System. Industry representatives noted that there is no acute electricity shortage at the beginning of March, with some periods even showing a surplus in generation, largely due to the contributions from solar and hydroelectric power plants.
Evidence of improving conditions is reflected in the reduction of available capacity for electricity imports, which decreased from 1,900 MW in February to 1,150 MW in March, alongside new opportunities for exporting up to 400 MW.
The letter emphasizes that for companies with continuous production cycles, importing electricity is crucial to avoid emergency production halts. However, the requirement to import at a 90% level during periods of no electricity deficit leads to unjustified cost increases, as electricity is purchased at significantly higher European prices.
Ukrmetallurgprom warns that this situation raises the production costs of metallurgical products, diminishes their competitiveness in global markets, and adds financial pressure on industry enterprises already affected by the war, logistical challenges, and declining global demand.
In light of these factors, the association urges the government to consider revoking Resolution No. 272, arguing that it has become irrelevant under the current operational conditions of the energy system and imposes an economically unjustifiable burden on Ukrainian industry.
Ukrmetallurgprom has urged the Ukrainian government to reconsider a recent increase in electricity import quotas, citing concerns over rising costs and the current energy surplus. The association argues that the new regulations could harm the competitiveness of the metallurgical sector amid ongoing economic challenges.