The Public Services Regulatory Commission of Armenia (PSRC) announced that electricity tariffs for consumers would remain unchanged in 2025. This decision follows a thorough review of all factors influencing tariff adjustments, as presented by the Electric Networks of Armenia (ENA). The analysis concluded that there was no necessity to revise the existing tariffs, ensuring stability for consumers in the coming year.
While the decision might appear favorable for the public, the lack of transparency surrounding the process raises concerns about accountability and fairness. The PSRC stated that ENA’s claims were meticulously reviewed; however, the specifics of these analyses, including the data and justifications behind the decision, remain inaccessible to the broader public. This opacity undermines consumer trust, casting doubts on whether the presented figures and assumptions are accurate and justified. Transparency in these deliberations is essential not only for public trust but also for ensuring that decisions align with the broader economic and social interests of the country.
The PSRC also finalized new tariffs for major energy producers and service providers within Armenia’s power grid. These rates, effective February 1, 2025, are expected to regulate non-competitive sectors of the energy market. However, these changes highlight the need for a broader discussion on energy policies, specifically the mechanisms used to determine tariff structures and optimize costs.
Consumer confidence in energy pricing decisions depends significantly on open communication and accountability. While the PSRC’s decision to maintain stable tariffs could be interpreted as a positive development, the absence of public hearings or detailed reporting raises questions. Are the costs and revenues presented by ENA fully accurate, or could they have been inflated or misrepresented? Furthermore, has the state explored alternative measures, such as cost optimization or more competitive pricing models, to benefit consumers further?
To address these issues, the PSRC must prioritize public engagement and transparency. It should provide detailed reports on ENA’s submissions, breaking down expenses, revenue forecasts, and other financial data that underpin tariff decisions. Additionally, the commission must disclose its own analyses that justify the tariff freeze and include the outcomes of any public consultations conducted during this review. Without such information, consumers are left without a clear understanding of the rationale behind critical policy decisions.
Electricity pricing is not just an economic issue; it also reflects the state’s commitment to fairness and accountability. For the energy market to function effectively and equitably, consumers must have access to comprehensive, reliable data and the opportunity to participate in discussions that affect their financial well-being.
The PSRC’s announcement to keep tariffs unchanged for 2025 may bring short-term relief, but long-term trust hinges on greater transparency and open dialogue. By ensuring that the public is fully informed and engaged, the commission can foster trust and confidence in its regulatory processes, ultimately benefiting both consumers and the energy sector.
The Armenian public deserves a transparent and accountable regulatory framework that prioritizes fairness and sustainability. As the country continues to develop its energy policies, fostering trust through openness and collaboration should remain at the core of all regulatory decisions. The path forward must ensure that both consumers and energy providers operate within a system that is equitable, efficient, and built on mutual trust.
