Ukraine braces for extended winter power outages amidst conflict
This winter, power outages in Ukraine could last up to 12 hours a day, according to Serhij Kovalenko, CEO of the largest energy company, Yasno. In an interview with the portal Delo.ua, Kovalenko stated that the energy deficit could reach up to 35 percent, and the situation will worsen if damaged facilities are not restored after the Russian attacks.
Kovalenko emphasized that these are preliminary forecasts, and complete plans for the winter period should be prepared by the end of August. He explained that estimates will be made regarding energy consumption, production, and imports for their development.
According to announcements, an increase in electricity production is expected from repairing some units of Ukrainian nuclear power plants, which will start operating in the fall. Repair work is also ongoing at hydroelectric and thermal power plants.
However, Kovalenko noted that ongoing Russian shelling of energy facilities could alter these plans.
Power outages in Ukraine. Winter may be difficult
According to Kovalenko, the situation could worsen if damaged facilities are not restored after Russian military attacks and if there is no agreement on imports. Much will also depend on whether the winter is mild.
Several power plants in Ukraine have been destroyed as a result of Russian attacks, including the Zmiyivska near Kharkiv and Trypillia in the Kyiv region. Recently, the Ivano-Frankivsk Regional State Administration announced that the power plant in the town of Burshtyn is no longer suitable for reconstruction after the Russian shelling.
Russians have also attacked distribution networks in Ukraine. These losses have significantly impacted residents, and the energy sector has imposed enormous consumer restrictions. According to the operator Ukrenerho, power outage schedules in Ukraine will apply all day on Saturday.
