Uzbekistan identified UZS 196bn ($15.6mn) in losses from illegal use of energy resources in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting ongoing challenges in energy consumption control.
According to the Uzenergoinspeksiya, a total of 885 violations related to unauthorized energy use were identified during inspections. Of these, electricity theft accounted for UZS 94.4bn ($7.5mn), equivalent to 49.7mn kWh, while illegal use of natural gas caused losses of UZS 101.6bn ($8.1mn), or 34.6mn cubic meters.
In addition, 1,599 administrative cases were filed for violations of energy consumption rules. Authorities also conducted fuel quality inspections, identifying 180 cases of substandard petroleum products totaling 4,058 tons, which were prevented from entering the market.
Efficiency measures were also implemented. Among consumers with capacity of 50 kW and above, 2,293 entities installed reactive energy compensation equipment, resulting in savings of 19.4mn kWh of electricity. At the same time, 11 consumers who failed to comply with requirements faced administrative action.
The data highlights continued efforts to improve energy efficiency and reduce losses, while addressing illegal consumption practices.
Earlier, Uzbekistan reported over UZS 1.5 trillion ($119mn) in losses from illegal gas and electricity use in 2023, followed by around UZS 1.4 trillion ($111mn) in 2024, indicating a persistent issue despite enforcement measures.
