Low temperatures and the beginning of the heating season are approaching the period when the operator "Ukrenergo" will apply hourly shutdown schedules. With each massive shelling, the risk of new large-scale blackouts increases. In the conditions of a serious shortage of electricity, businesses and households need to prepare for winter. What steps should be taken to ensure energy independence?
Business readiness: backup power sources
Experts point out that business should focus on backup power sources, because there are practically no support programs from the state. "The lack of energy-saving or energy-providing support programs for business leaves enterprises alone with the problem," comments Oleg Popenko, an expert in housing and communal services.
Currently, powerful technical solutions are important: systems with inverters and batteries that store energy, as well as generators. Each business can choose the best option depending on its needs and budget. For example, a low-power generator is suitable for a small hair salon, while a multi-apartment building or a large enterprise requires larger-scale solutions, such as solar power plants.
Energy independence: examples from life
Some Ukrainian enterprises are already actively implementing energy independence projects. In Vinnytsia, thanks to the installation of rooftop solar power plants, one of the enterprises became completely energy independent. "On the basis of the production facilities, an energy storage facility was installed, which provides uninterrupted power supply," says Vinnytsia Mayor Serhii Morgunov.
Also, the "Politeh-Plaza" condominium in Kyiv implemented a project of a solar power plant, which allows to provide electricity for elevators, water supply pumps and lighting of common areas.
Will importing electricity help?
According to analysts, commercial electricity exports have resumed in Ukraine, which indicates an improvement in the situation in the energy system. However, taking into account the possibility of restoring the deficit, CHS expert Maksym Samoiluk emphasizes: "Electricity imports will not be able to avoid blackouts if the situation worsens."
In the absence of a significant deficit, Ukraine will have to implement imports, but in the winter months this may not ensure full stability. It is also planned to revise the ceiling prices for electricity, which may lead to an increase in tariffs.
