Ukraine to import more electricity from EU starting in December: Details
Ukrainian Minister of Energy Herman Galushchenko (Photo: Getty Images)
Ukraine has increased its capacity for importing electricity from the European Union by over 1.5 GW, according to a statement from the Minister of Energy of Ukraine, Herman Halushchenko.
"We thank ENTSO-E (European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity) for adopting this decision. With the onset of colder weather, the enemy has intensified attacks on our energy infrastructure. In such conditions, having reserves and the ability to import larger volumes of electricity from EU countries is an important tool to support the energy system and its resilience," noted the Minister.
Halushchenko has repeatedly emphasized the necessity of increasing the capabilities for electricity importation into Ukraine, especially during international meetings.
The increase in electricity import capacities is crucial not only for Ukraine
He mentions that enhancing transmission capacities for importing electricity from the EU will not only help sustain the Ukrainian energy system for another winter but also bolster the overall energy security of the continent.
Halushchenko also highlights the significance of the decision by the Regional Group of Continental Europe ENTSO-E, which changed the synchronization status from testing to permanent, marking a crucial step toward the full integration of the Ukrainian power grid with the European one.
Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy
Since October 2022 until almost March 2023, Russian occupiers have been extensively shelling Ukraine's energy system. The aggressors attempted to cause blackouts.
Due to numerous Russian attacks, some of Ukraine's energy facilities were severely damaged. This led to power outages during autumn and winter in Ukraine, urging citizens to conserve electricity and not overload the system.
Moreover, on November 23, Ukrenergo stated that the situation remained challenging. Repairs continue on several units of thermal power plants. There is a deficit in the energy system that continues to grow.
