Janis Lange urged the municipal enterprises of the capital to understand the situation of Riga residents who are experiencing financial difficulties.
Considering the significantly low air temperature experienced in January 2026 and the rapid increase in heat energy consumption, the Executive Director of Riga, Janis Lange, urges municipal capital companies (municipal enterprises) to "act socially responsibly and provide support to residents facing financial difficulties."
As reported today by the Riga City Council, due to low outdoor temperatures, many residents have seen a significant increase in utility expenses, creating an additional burden on household budgets and complicating timely payments. In such conditions, the Executive Director believes it is important for both the municipality and its capital companies to provide support to the population according to their capabilities.
Janis Lange calls on capital companies to make decisions similar to those implemented during the difficult periods of 2020-2023 (during the Covid-19 pandemic), namely - to suspend until June 30 the calculation of penalties and fines for late payments. This appeal extends to heat energy, water supply, and sewage services, while simultaneously not ceasing the provision of these services and, if possible, negotiating later payment deadlines with clients. J. Lange also urges other service providers to assess the situation and act socially responsibly by not applying late payment interest.
Such actions, the Executive Director emphasizes, are an example of socially responsible commercial activity that will give residents the opportunity to overcome the current situation.
