Ukraine may continue to experience power outages even after the war ends, said Oleksandr Ignatiev, chairman of the board of the Ukrainian Renewable Energy Association. According to him, the country's power system is in such a state that a full and stable supply of electricity will require years of restoration work and investments.
The expert emphasizes: even after the cessation of attacks on energy infrastructure, Ukraine will have a number of systemic problems that will not allow a quick return to stable energy supply. Among the key factors is the virtual absence of operational coal-fired thermal power plants. Most of them are destroyed or critically damaged, and some are occupied. CHPs were an important pillar of the energy system, especially during peak and winter periods, and their loss creates a long-term structural capacity deficit.
No less serious is the problem of coal shortage. Ukraine does not have sufficient reserves, and import logistics remain expensive and limited. Without a stable supply of fuel, it will be difficult to restore operation of even those CHPs that can be repaired.
Another factor is the forced restrictions on nuclear generation. Ukrenergo and NPP operators have repeatedly reported that due to network damage, insufficient capacity, and risks to plant safety, nuclear power cannot operate at full design capacity. This removes additional gigawatts from the generation structure that would be the basis of the power system in peacetime.
According to Ignatiev, without large-scale reconstruction of networks, restoration of thermal generation, modernization of nuclear power plants, and development of renewable energy sources, the country will not be able to guarantee a stable electricity supply. Therefore, restrictions and shutdowns may be repeated from time to time even after victory.
Despite this, experts emphasize: the situation is not hopeless. Ukraine has the potential for rapid development of renewable energy, integration of new energy storage technologies, modernization of networks and attraction of investments through European programs. But this process will require time, political will and a strategic approach.
