Uzbekistan to provide one-time utility subsidy for low-income families

The government has allocated 370 billion UZS (approx. $30 million) to support this initiative, targeting registered low-income families identified by social service centers, mahalla associations, and local governments. The primary list includes around 1.2 million families enrolled in the “Social Protection” registry for child benefits or material aid. An additional 180,000 families deemed in need will also receive the subsidy.

According to the National Agency for Social Protection, the subsidy aims to mitigate the effects of rising utility tariffs on vulnerable households. The payment, set at a uniform rate of 270,000 UZS, will be automatically transferred to eligible families’ welfare-linked cards, requiring no additional application or registration. Families outside the primary registry, such as those headed by single parents, the disabled, and those who have lost a breadwinner, are also eligible under the supplementary list.

Eligible families may also apply for further subsidies if their utility consumption exceeds the social norm, which is capped at 200 kWh for electricity and 500 cubic meters for gas per month during the peak winter months. Excess consumption within these norms will be compensated by covering the difference between the base tariff and the rate applied to additional usage. Families can apply for this additional assistance at the “Inson” social services center, with compensation applied the following month based on actual usage.

The “Inson” social services center hotline, reachable at 1140, is available to answer any questions or provide consultations regarding the subsidy. The government is also exploring additional assistance options for low-income households to ensure they meet their energy needs during the heating season.