15.02.2026 08:50
The Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK) introduced an installment option of up to 6 months for the connection fee with changes made to the natural gas regulation, exempted those receiving social assistance from the security deposit, and increased transparency in the meter and billing processes.
The Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK) accepted comprehensive changes to the Natural Gas Market Distribution and Customer Services Regulation that strengthen consumer rights during its meeting on February 12, 2026. The decision was sent to the Presidency to be published in the Official Gazette.
With the new regulation, while increasing efficiency, productivity, and transparency in natural gas distribution activities, the aim was to enhance consumer satisfaction and address the issues experienced in practice.
EASE OF INSTALLMENT FOR CONNECTION FEE
With the amendment made to Article 36 of the regulation, the installment option for consumers who want to pay the subscriber connection fee by credit card has been expanded. The system, which was previously implemented with a minimum of 3 installments, has been arranged to include an option for installments of up to 6 months.
SOCIAL EXEMPTION ON SECURITY DEPOSIT
With the amendment made to Article 39, it was decided that no security deposit would be collected from public institutions, places of worship, cemevis, and Quran courses, as well as from citizens receiving old-age pensions and social assistance for new subscriptions.
UNIFICATION IN METERING AND BILLING
With the regulation made in Article 42, the processes for calculating the consumption fee in cases where the meter does not measure or measures incorrectly have been clarified. By providing clarity on the methods to be applied in cases of illegal use and faulty measurement, legal uncertainties for both consumers and distribution companies have been eliminated.
EPDK President Mustafa Yılmaz stated that the regulations were prepared with a consumer-focused approach, saying, "Our primary priority in energy markets is the protection of our consumers and the increase of their satisfaction. With these regulations, we are providing flexibility in payment processes and making billing and information mechanisms more transparent and effective. The social exemptions regarding the security deposit are also a reflection of our understanding of a social state. Our goal is to establish a safe and sustainable natural gas market permanently," he expressed.