PARIS: Ukraine’s Energy Minister, German Galushchenko, has highlighted the war-induced destruction of coalmines and power plants as a driving force behind the country’s shift towards renewable energy.
Galushchenko noted Ukraine’s intention to replace lost nuclear energy production while emphasizing the accelerated pace of green transition resulting from the conflict.
Russian forces’ destruction of 11 coalmines, aimed at weakening Kyiv’s energy capacity, has permanently altered Ukraine’s energy landscape, according to Galushchenko. With several power plants out of action, the country aims to phase out coal for climate protection reasons, prioritizing the development of wind and solar farms.
Galushchenko revealed that Ukraine had constructed wind and solar power capacity last year, albeit modestly, attributing this progress to the urgency created by the war. Plans to rebuild nuclear power infrastructure, including procuring reactors from Russia and the United States, are also in motion to compensate for lost production from occupied facilities.
While some experts express skepticism about the feasibility of these projects, Galushchenko sees expanded nuclear production as an opportunity for Ukraine to supply Europe with green hydrogen, a fuel crucial for decarbonizing various sectors. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning hydrogen transportation.
Despite the hardships, Galushchenko expressed optimism about Ukraine’s electricity network performance this winter, noting improved stability and reduced restrictions on supply. With international support, Ukraine aims to navigate through the winter without significant disruptions, fostering economic growth in the process.
