The National Commission for the Regulation of Energy and Utilities of Ukraine (NEURC) has approved draft amendments to the country’s rules regarding the retail electricity market. One of the key changes is the right of consumers with smart meters to enter into dynamic electricity price contracts. The draft amendments also expand consumers’ options on payment methods and switching electricity suppliers.

The dynamic price will change depending on fluctuations in the day-ahead and intraday markets. For the consumer, this means the ability to consider price changes throughout the day, adjust their consumption accordingly, and manage their electricity costs more flexibly.

At the same time, the transition to dynamic pricing will not be mandatory. It is up to the consumer to decide whether to conclude such a contract.

Electricity suppliers serving more than 200,000 Ukrainian consumers must provide the opportunity to conclude a contract with a dynamic price to those customers who have smart meters.

Before concluding such a contract, the electricity supplier must explain to the consumer what the price change depends on, as well as inform about possible benefits, risks and costs. In the personal account, the consumer will be able to see data on his consumption and changes in the dynamic price for the relevant periods.

The draft amendments are also designed to simplify the process of changing electricity supplier. It should be free of charge for household and small non-household consumers.

In addition, consumers will be able to choose a supplier registered in a member state of the EU or the Energy Community, if it is allowed to operate on the Ukrainian market.

The changes are prepared to implement legislation on the integration of Ukrainian energy markets with European ones and strengthening consumer rights.

The draft resolution will be published on the NEURC website for comments and suggestions.