'We must save Ukrainians from catastrophic winter energy shortages' - EU energy commissioner
Photo: EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson (GettyImages)
Today, unprecedented efforts of solidarity and generosity are needed against the backdrop of the Ukrainian energy crisis. Ukraine should not be left alone as it prepares for the hardest winter yet, according to EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson.
Simson calls on the international community to step up its efforts to support Ukraine ahead of the winter season. She notes that Ukrainians are likely to face the most difficult winter period on the entire continent since the Second World War.
The Commissioner proposes six key areas of assistance, including restoring destroyed energy facilities, providing Ukraine with generators, deploying solar panels, and increasing the capacity of energy borders.
Simson also describes in detail how a number of mechanisms could be simplified to ensure that Ukraine receives all the assistance it needs to get through the winter period promptly at a time of energy crisis. At the same time, she calls for strengthening passive protection of energy infrastructure and air defense around critical facilities in Ukraine.
Assistance mechanisms
The Commissioner states that governments and companies could donate to the Energy Support Fund of Ukraine, which is managed by the energy community, describing it as the fastest and most reliable way to procure energy equipment for Ukraine.
She notes that the EU's civil protection mechanism can supply used spare parts and equipment that meet Ukraine's needs. Banks can also help reduce project risks by supporting insurance and guarantees
Simson says that companies could help by training workers in Ukraine or installing materials, such as photovoltaic panels and inverters, on-site.
Simson urges everyone who could help Ukraine before the cold season to do so, stating that the European Commission would be there to assist in providing support.
Energy problems in Ukraine
Amid Russia's massive missile attacks on Ukraine's energy sector, which resumed this spring, power companies have begun to reintroduce blackout schedules.
In the summer, the situation in the power grid deteriorated significantly due to weather conditions. The abnormal heat wave in Ukraine led to an increase in the use of electrical appliances, which in turn put a significant strain on the grid that had been weakened by the Russians.
Nevertheless, Ukrainian power engineers repaired several facilities and Ukrainians spent several weeks without power cuts.
However, the other day, Ukrainian citizens were again warned that hot weather is expected in Ukraine this week, which could lead to a repeat of the blackout scenario.
The authorities, energy experts, and the public unanimously agree that Ukraine will face its worst winter yet this year due to a shortage of power generation.
