Ukraine strengthens school infrastructure to operate up to 12 hours during blackouts

"Russia continues to strike civilian energy infrastructure in Ukraine. The enemy is planning further attacks on the energy sector, which may now be less visible," noted the Deputy Head of the Office of the President.

According to Mykyta, in light of this, responses and decisions at all levels must be pragmatic.

"We are ready to respond to any crisis or threat. We've proven this time and again over the past four years. Based on this experience, education and healthcare have been identified as top priorities at the local level," he explained.

Mykyta emphasized that one of the key agenda items currently under discussion is the creation of energy-independent educational institutions in regions and communities. These schools will be able to operate autonomously for up to 12 hours, even during possible power outages caused by potential enemy attacks on energy facilities.

The goal of the project is to establish community centers based in schools that can continue operating independently during blackouts using batteries and solar power systems.

"In the event of attacks on energy infrastructure and disruptions to electricity supply, hub schools in communities will become safe spaces where children can stay after hours — even into the evening. They'll be able to take part in sports, watch films, attend lectures, and play educational games," he added.

School autonomy project in Ukraine

According to Mykyta, the first phase of the project focuses on the largest hub schools equipped with bomb shelters and solid-fuel heating systems. In schools where such systems are absent, the installation of backup heating is being planned.

The second phase of the initiative will cover all other hub educational institutions.

The creation of energy-independent educational facilities involves three main stages:

1. Replacing all lighting with energy-efficient bulbs to reduce electricity consumption.

2. Installing solar panels, batteries, and inverters with appropriate capacity.

3. Equipping schools with the necessary infrastructure to host children for after-school activities on school grounds.

At the same time, according to the Deputy Head of the Office of the President, programs will be developed to engage children in after-school activities late into the evening, tailored to their age and individual needs.

"This decision is based on the experience gained from the operation of existing energy-independent educational institutions, which have already proven the effectiveness of this approach in various regions," he added.

Mykyta also noted that the heads of regional administrations have already received instructions to carry out calculations, design plans, and implement the project together with local communities as quickly as possible — before the start of the autumn-winter period.

Power supply restrictions in Ukraine

Electricity supply restrictions in Ukraine are primarily due to large-scale damage to the country's energy infrastructure caused by Russian missile and drone attacks.

To balance demand and supply in the power grid, operators have often been forced to implement scheduled outages or emergency restrictions.

Earlier this year, experts explained what measures could help Ukraine avoid blackouts during the winter.