Despite significant Western aid, analysts predict that Ukraine is in for a difficult winter due to ongoing Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure. According to Voice of America, Ukrainians could face long power outages, making the winter cold and dark for many in the country.
Western aid to Ukraine's energy sector
The United States actively supports the Ukrainian energy sector. Recently, Ukrenergo received an autotransformer from the United States to replace the one destroyed in the frontline zone. According to US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink, this transformer will provide stable electricity supply for about 50,000 households .
The ambassador noted that the US government is doing everything possible to maintain electricity supply in Ukraine , despite continuous attacks from Russia.
EU support plan for Ukrainian energy sector
In September, Brussels announced a new, ambitious plan to support Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. According to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen , Ukraine needs 17 GW of capacity to provide electricity in the winter . The EU has offered assistance in three key areas: repairs, connections and stabilisation of the power system.
The European Union will also allocate €160 million to support Ukraine, including:
- €60 million for humanitarian aid, including shelters and heaters;
- 100 million euros for renovation work and renewable energy sources.
Help from other countries
Ukraine is receiving assistance from many international partners. In particular, since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, the country has received 12 shipments of humanitarian aid from Japan , which include backup power plants, gas turbines, autotransformers, and other energy equipment.
UN forecast: difficult winter for millions of Ukrainians
A report by the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission stated that due to massive Russian strikes, Ukraine could face power outages lasting from 4 to 18 hours a day during the winter. The destruction of energy infrastructure will negatively affect vital systems:
- water supply and sewage,
- heating and hot water supply ,
- healthcare and education.
These consequences will have a devastating impact on millions of Ukrainians , as well as significantly impact the country's economy.
Problems with electricity imports
Stanislav Ignatiev, Chairman of the Council of the Ukrainian Renewable Energy Association, noted that existing price caps on electricity may create difficulties with its import from the EU during periods of deficit. This may exacerbate the country's energy problems in the winter.
