Overcharged by mistake or by design? Power company’s “technical error” nearly cost telecom firm over UZS 1 billion

According to the press service of the Competition Committee, a major case of unjustified electricity debt was uncovered in the capital. The issue came to light after a telecommunications enterprise filed a complaint with the supervisory authority, claiming that Regional Electric Networks (REN) and its subsidiary Energosavdo had unjustifiably charged it more than UZS 1 billion for electricity supply.

The Committee’s inspection revealed that during meter installation, the power company had incorrectly connected the secondary circuits. As a result of this technical error, the system accumulated debt for the consumer over the past three years.

While the issue of technical errors is addressed in the new electricity usage regulations, it was not covered in the previous version. Furthermore, the calculation was made without accounting for the readings of a properly connected sub-consumer meter.

A special commission has initiated proceedings against Regional Electric Networks and Energosavdo for violating the Law on Competition. The Committee instructed the companies to recalculate the UZS 1.097 billion debt, correct the violations, and prevent similar issues in the future.

Additionally, the supervisory body ordered that the case materials be forwarded to law enforcement authorities for legal assessment of whether Regional Electric Networks complied with electricity usage regulations. If the company disagrees with the decision, it may appeal through the Appeals Council or in court.