Easier Billing for 150,000 Businesses! Due to the coronavirus outbreak, many businesses across Turkey’s 81 provinces have been temporarily ordered to stop operations. Affected establishments include cinemas, wedding halls, country gardens, tea gardens, swimming pools, and gyms, among others. Because these businesses cannot operate during the restriction period, authorities decided that bills will not be issued for a three-month period.
According to Energy Minister Fatih Dönmez, the Interior Ministry’s circular clarified the billing procedure for businesses temporarily suspended from operating. Minister Dönmez explained that the meters for these businesses will not be read for three months. If any business still receives a bill despite being covered by the circular, they have the right to file an objection. The minister emphasized that the authorities will ensure no undue problems arise.
Anyone Who Has Doubts Can Object
Businesses that believe they have been billed in error can submit an objection. The initial three-month suspension of billing may be extended if coronavirus precautions remain necessary. Any bills that arise during this period will be reviewed at the end of the suspension, and decisions will be made about payment arrangements or potential exemptions. If a covered business receives a bill—accidentally or otherwise—they can lodge a complaint. These complaints can be directed to the Ministry of Energy and the Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK). The minister stressed that the authorities are handling the matter with care and will coordinate with EPDK to correct any mistakes promptly.
In early April, EPDK issued directives affecting electricity and natural gas billing. Under this decision, for areas placed under quarantine or where meter readings have been suspended by administrative order, billing has been adjusted comparatively. Minister Dönmez noted that full quarantine measures are less common in major cities, and that bills are generally being calculated based on actual consumption. Consumers who question their bills are encouraged to file objections; officials have pledged to carry out their responsibilities and address those concerns.