Illegal energy use costs Uzbekistan over UZS 1.2 trillion in a year

Since the beginning of the year, authorities have identified 2,887 cases of unlawful use of electricity and natural gas. Preliminary estimates put the total damage to the state at UZS 1.243 trillion, including UZS 668.9 billion from illegal electricity consumption and UZS 574.7 billion from unauthorized use of natural gas.

To ensure a legal assessment of the violations, 2,696 case files have been forwarded to law enforcement agencies. In addition, nearly 5,300 administrative cases have been initiated against consumers for breaching rules on the use of energy resources.

Separately, inspections aimed at monitoring the quality of petroleum products at gas stations and industrial facilities uncovered widespread violations. Based on laboratory analysis of sampled products, inspectors identified 9.3 million liters of substandard fuel in 377 cases. The sale of these petroleum products was prevented, the ministry said.

Authorities noted that the ongoing enforcement measures are intended to curb illegal consumption, reduce losses to the state, and improve compliance with energy and fuel quality standards.