On Friday April 25, President Emomali Rahmon held a working meeting with leaders and responsible officials from various state structures and investment projects in the energy sector, the Tajik president’s official website reports.
During the meeting, Rahmon reportedly highlighted that the illegal use of electricity continues to be a pressing issue in the country and stressed the need for harsher penalties, including imprisonment for up to 10 years. He emphasized that over the years of independence, Tajikistan has implemented 36 state investment projects worth 89 billion somonis aimed at increasing electricity production capacity, strengthening the energy infrastructure, and promoting the efficient and rational use of electricity.
Notably, three projects have been carried out to reduce electricity losses, with a total investment of 1.1 billion somonis, while another three projects worth 2.9 billion somonis are ongoing. In 2024, 11 new agreements were signed for seven state investment projects worth 9.6 billion somonis, which are expected to contribute to achieving the strategic goals of the national economy.
More than 2,000 megawatts of new power capacity have been introduced, and electricity production has increased from 17 billion kilowatt-hours in 1991 to 22.4 billion kilowatt-hours in 2024.
The President pointed out that 20 state investment projects in the energy sector are still underway, with a total value of 1.653 billion US dollars, representing 36% of all state investment projects. The bulk of the attracted funds is directed at the energy sector.
He also highlighted the importance of addressing issues in the energy sector, particularly improving power supply to the population and industries. Efficient electricity use and saving energy have been underscored as key priorities for the country’s socio-economic development.
In his remarks, Rahmon noted that the problem of electricity losses and its illegal use remains concerning. To address this, the Agency for State Energy Supervision has been established to oversee the proper accounting and use of electricity. The country's legislation provides for criminal liability for illegal use of electricity.
The President directed the authorities to take comprehensive measures to reduce electricity losses and ensure efficient usage, which are crucial for the country’s development. He also emphasized the need for proper oversight in implementing energy projects, especially those aimed at reducing electricity losses, and for timely and quality procurement processes.
Rahmon instructed the relevant ministries and project leaders to make full use of available resources, including media, intellectuals, and public activists, to inform every family in the country about the new legal provisions regarding the severe penalties for illegal electricity use.
"Everyone must understand that the penalties for illegal use of electricity and non-payment will be intensified, including criminal responsibility, which could lead to imprisonment for up to 10 years," the statement concluded.
On April 2, the lower house of the Tajikistan parliament approved amendments proposed to the Criminal Code, increasing penalties for the illegal use of electricity. The bill was prepared by the Ministry of Justice at the President's request and stipulates criminal responsibility for violating the rules and norms of electricity use.
