According to the expert, the primary reason for the debt burden is the inadequately balanced tariffs for critical consumers.
"For instance, the tariffs for Ukrainian water utilities are such that they largely cannot afford to pay for electricity. They do not have the funds allocated. Paying the market price for electricity is simply out of reach for them. As a result, they do not pay. Consequently, this leads to the formation of corresponding debt, and it is impossible to disconnect the water utility because it is critical infrastructure; we would be left without sewage and water," noted Kharchenko.
A similar situation has arisen with state coal mines, which also fail to cover their electricity costs. Kharchenko emphasized that resolving these issues requires coordinated actions from the regulator, the relevant ministry, and the Cabinet of Ministers.
"There is such a complex of problems here that can only be addressed through the efforts of the regulator, the ministry, and the Cabinet of Ministers as a whole. And today, I do not see any actions, plans, opportunities, or even active communication indicating an understanding that this needs to be done," he stated.