China-ukraine large energy storage equipment

Is Russia targeting Ukraine's energy system?

Ukraine’s energy system 1 has been regularly targeted by Russia since its full-scale invasion in 2022, with attacks intensifying since the spring of 2024. The targeting of energy infrastructure has had wide-ranging consequences for the provision of energy to Ukrainian households and other consumers.

How important is interconnection to Ukraine's electricity security?

Interconnection with the main European system 4 has made a crucial contribution to Ukraine’s electricity security, with the limit on cross-border trade 5 increasing to 1.7 GW in November 2023. Before the 2022 invasion, Ukraine's power system was interconnected with the Russian and Belarussian grids.

How dangerous is Ukraine's energy infrastructure in 2024?

With the escalation of attacks against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in 2024, the risks are significantly higher this winter. Temperatures can routinely drop below -10 °C between December and March, posing a serious humanitarian risk if heating is not available.

Will Ukraine's energy supply be impacted by a cold winter?

While Ukrainians have shown immense solidarity, ingenuity and resilience, and support from Ukraine’s partners, including equipment and spare parts, have been instrumental in maintaining a functioning system, the possibility of an even deeper shortfall in energy supply during the upcoming cold winter months presents profound risks.

What happened to Ukraine's heating & natural gas infrastructure in 2022?

Ukraine's district heating and natural gas infrastructure has also been targeted. Since 2022, 18 large combined heat and power (CHP) plants have been damaged or completely destroyed, along with more than 800 boiler houses. Some above-ground natural gas storage infrastructure has been damaged, although underground inventories remain unaffected.

How has Ukraine managed its electricity deficit?

The deficit has been managed by Ukraine’s state-owned electricity transmission system operator, Ukrenergo, through rolling cuts to supply, limiting electricity provision in the worst-affected regions to a few hours per day.