Ukraine’s power system strained ahead of heating season: Kharchenko

Overall, the country’s power infrastructure is functioning at the threshold of its reserve capacity, noted Oleksandr Kharchenko, Director of the Energy Research Center. Nevertheless, under an optimistic scenario, the heating season could proceed with only minor outages.

Speaking at a briefing at Media Center Ukraine, Kharchenko noted, “The power system is entering the heating season in a precarious condition, as it is running on the brink of reserve capacity. At present, consumption demands are being met, but there is no buffer—neither a substantial nor even a marginal reserve. This vulnerability has been evident for some time, and we’ll have to contend with these constraints throughout the season. In the best-case scenario, we’ll manage with only minimal outages and disruptions to the power supply. As for heating, I remain cautiously optimistic. In the cities where I’ve been able to obtain comprehensive data, local authorities are making concerted efforts, taking nearly every possible measure to reinforce the system ahead of winter, secure backup power for essential elements of heating, water supply, and sewage infrastructure, and adequately prepare residents.”

Read more: https://mediacenter.org.ua/news