Due to rising operating costs and energy prices, heating plants in several Serbian cities have increased prices by up to 30% since July or August, with some planning further hikes. In Belgrade, the local power plants have requested approval for a proposed 9% increase in heating prices for the 2024/2025 season.
For residential heating, the Belgrade Power Plants have suggested raising the variable rate from 7.33 dinars to 7.75 dinars per kilowatt-hour (kWh), excluding VAT. The proposed increase for business premises is from 8.94 dinars to 9.46 dinars per kWh, also excluding VAT. Additionally, the fixed price for power could rise from 4,862.72 dinars to 5,456.72 dinars per kilowatt per year.
The proposed annual price for residential heating could increase from 1,449.32 dinars to 1,578.67 dinars per square meter, excluding VAT, representing an 8.92% rise. For business premises, the proposed increase is from 14,978.29 dinars to 16,329.29 dinars per kilowatt per year, an 8.93% rise.
In Majdanpek, heating prices have already increased by 30% from July 1, rising from 105 dinars to 125 dinars, including VAT, due to continuous 24-hour operation and higher energy costs.
In Čačak, the heating plant has adjusted its pricing structure to balance increased fixed costs with a reduced variable cost, aiming to benefit consumers with higher energy usage despite a price increase.
Saša Petković from JKP Suboticka toplana noted that while they are not planning an immediate price increase, they face challenges due to their lower heating rates compared to other Serbian power plants. Their current price is 6.67 dinars per kWh, with a fixed cost of 35.9 dinars per square meter.
The heating season in Belgrade begins on October 15 and ends on April 15, with heating provided exceptionally from October 1 to 14 and April 16 to May 3 if the average daily temperature is forecasted to be below 12 degrees Celsius. Other Serbian cities follow a similar heating calendar.
