Kathrine Frich
This system allows flexibility while prioritising safety and readiness.
This system allows flexibility while prioritising safety and readiness.
Ukraine prepares for winter
As winter approaches, Ukraine is rushing to protect its energy systems from renewed Russian attacks.
Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svirydenko announced that major efforts are underway to ensure people have heat and power during the cold months.
Heating season to begin when temperatures drop below 8°C
Ukrainian officials say the start of the heating season will depend on the weather, specifically when average daily temperatures fall below 8°C for three consecutive days.
This system allows flexibility while prioritising safety and readiness.
Svirydenko: keeping power and heat running is top priority
“Our main goal this winter is to ensure continuous operation of critical infrastructure,” said Svirydenko.
She stressed the importance of fast action so that citizens retain access to heat and electricity even during attacks.
Invincibility points offer shelter and power during outages
A key part of Ukraine’s strategy involves setting up “Invincibility Points.” These shelters are equipped with autonomous heat, water, and electricity sources.
They act as safe spaces where civilians can go during long blackouts or strikes.
Authorities upgrade and test resilience centres
Officials are now inspecting and upgrading these Invincibility Points to ensure they can operate nonstop if needed.
The focus is on resilience, with shelters being readied to handle large-scale disruptions from Russian bombings.
Ukraine shifts toward decentralised energy generation
The government is prioritising small-scale, local power sources to reduce reliance on large energy grids.
Decentralised networks are less vulnerable to missile attacks and help maintain stability during emergencies.
Energy support for frontline regions
A new order from Ukraine’s executive branch aims to keep power and gas flowing to essential services in frontline areas.
These regions are often targeted and require special attention to avoid breakdowns in basic utilities.
Solar and battery loans expanded for homes and co-ops
To boost local energy independence, the government is offering financial aid through the “Affordable Loans 5-7-9%” programme.
Housing associations and cooperatives can now apply for help to buy solar panels, batteries, and heaters.
Programme to include more communities
Kyiv says it plans to broaden eligibility so that more neighbourhoods and towns can benefit.
The idea is to empower local groups to protect themselves from outages by using alternative power sources.
EU gives Ukraine €40 million for winter protection
International aid will play a major role this winter. The European Commission has approved a €40 million package to support Ukraine’s civil protection.
The money will go towards generators, heating systems, and emergency infrastructure.
EU aid focused on emergency shelters and generators
Most of the funding from Brussels will support local authorities as they prepare for possible outages.
The supplies will help prevent humanitarian crises during prolonged blackouts caused by Russian strikes.
This article is made and published by Kathrine Frich, who may have used AI in the preparation
