Ukraine preparing energy system for winter, taking war-related threats into account - minister

Ukraine is preparing its energy system for the next heating season, taking into account possible military threats.

This was discussed at a meeting of the G7+ Coordination Group on providing assistance to Ukraine’s energy sector, the Ministry of Energy reports.

"This night's attack once again proved that Ukraine's air defense works perfectly so it gives us hope for the future. At the same time, we understand that Russia will not give up its intentions and will continue to strike our energy infrastructure, especially with the start of the next heating season. That is why we are already preparing for winter, restoring what has been attacked, and strengthening the protection of our energy facilities," said Energy Minister German Galushchenko.

He also emphasized the importance of commissioning the updated Khmelnytskyi NPP - Rzeszow power transmission line, which strengthens Ukraine's energy security through electricity export and import mechanisms.

As part of the preparation for the next heating season, a stock of necessary equipment is also being formed, which may be needed to restore the facilities after potential enemy attacks. Ukraine conveys its current needs via the AidEnergy platform. Among the most pressing needs at the moment is equipment to help decentralize generation, including mobile gas turbines and gas pistons.

The minister also briefed the participants of the meeting on measures being taken to accumulate energy resources for the next heating season. He recalled that the gas storage operator, Ukrtransgaz, has passed EU certification, and that Ukraine is ready to provide its underground gas storage capacity to European partners. This, in turn, will strengthen both European and Ukrainian energy security.

As reported, $3.4 billion is needed to prepare for the next heating season. This amount includes both the restoration of generation capacities and the purchase of necessary resources.