Former Energy Minister and director of Georgia Renewable Energy, Davit Mirtskhulava, expects an increase in electricity tariffs. In an interview with BMGTV, he stressed the direct link between a stable power supply and electricity prices, noting that tariff growth is necessary to maintain reliable service.
Mirtskhulava explained that the National Energy and Water Supply Regulatory Commission (GNERC) will set the new tariff on March 30, and a temporary tariff has been in place for the past three months. Energy companies such as Energo-Pro Georgia and Telasi have investment plans totaling nearly GEL 2 billion for infrastructure upgrades, which logically must be reflected in the tariff.
He emphasized that many substations and equipment are decades old, creating vulnerabilities in the system. “Tariff increases are always linked to corresponding investment plans. Reliability and cost are directly proportional,” Mirtskhulava said, adding that new generation projects also require network connections, presenting major logistical challenges.
Finally, he stressed that while tariff increases are unpopular, they are preferable to regular power outages. Mirtskhulava is confident GNERC will determine a reasonable increase, sufficient to support investments without harming consumers, ensuring long-term energy security and Georgia’s goal of achieving a self-sufficient power system by 2036.
