On October 22, Minsk / BELTA correspondent. A decision on the introduction of differentiated electricity tariffs in Belarus may be made in November 2012. This was announced on October 19 to journalists by the Minister of Energy of Belarus, Alexander Ozerets, as reported by BELTA correspondent. "The increase will not be ahead of schedule; wages will be increased first, and then differentiated tariffs will be introduced. The first increase under this program is planned for the fourth quarter, and I think the final decision will be made in November," stated Alexander Ozerets. At the same time, the social groups of the population that need protection will be protected, and these issues are being worked out, added the Minister of Energy. The introduction of differentiated electricity tariffs is a relevant and highly discussed issue, stated Alexander Ozerets. "During the study of this issue over the year, various options have been worked out and developed so that it does not become a stress for the population. Naturally, the issue of population protection is fully considered here, and in fact, today we are talking about the need to increase tariffs for the population, but in a balanced and measured way, and not as it is written in the newspapers," noted the Minister of Energy. At the first stage, differentiated tariffs will be introduced for subscribers with a certain social quota ranging from 150 kWh to 250 kWh per month, depending on the type of stove – gas or electric. "Here is a state-protected tariff," explained Alexander Ozerets. For 300-400 kWh above this, the tariff will be increased by 30%. Payment for the remaining electricity consumed will be made at cost price. "If one family consumes 300 kWh per month, and the second family consumes 1.5 thousand kWh, then the second family is overusing social benefits five times today. There should be social equality and fairness in electricity consumption," believes the Minister of Energy. -0-

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