Volgograd Residents Shocked by Soaring Heating Bills

Residents of Volgograd report that January heating payments have nearly doubled compared to December, causing widespread alarm and demands for explanations.

Feb 23, 2026

The sudden spike in January heating costs has left many Volgograd residents stunned and seeking answers.
Source:
Alexei Volkhonsky / V1.RU

The first heating bills from IVC Housing and Utilities and TEC (IVC ZhKH i TEK), received in January 2026, showed a sharp increase — almost double compared to December 2025.

Heating expenses make up nearly half of the total utility bill for numerous households in the city.
Source:
readers of V1.RU

One resident described her reaction: «When I saw the amount, I almost sank into the sofa from surprise. In December, all my utilities cost about 7,000 rubles (approximately $78 at current rates), but for January, I need to pay almost 12,000 rubles (about $133), with nearly half for heating. This is for an apartment in a Stalinka (apartment from the Stalin era) building, with an area of 53 square meters (about 570 square feet).»

According to her, many other townspeople have also faced high charges and are demanding explanations.

A request has been sent to JSC «IVC Housing and Utilities and TEC» to clarify the reasons for the bill increase. Among possible factors is the rise in the VAT (Value Added Tax) rate to 22% from January 1, 2026.

Previously, residents of the Dzerzhinsky district in Volgograd had complained about high amounts in their bills. Heating Supply Concessions explained the situation as a recalculation for an unheated room.