Ukraine needs €5.4 billion to prepare for winter, says Shmyhal
Ukraine needs at least €5.4 billion to prepare for the coming heating season. This was stated by Ukraine’s Minister of Energy, Denys Shmyhal, on 26 April during a speech at the Ukraine Energy Coordination Group Conference.
According to him, these funds are necessary to implement measures before the cold season begins. He cited strengthening the active protection of energy infrastructure with the support of international partners as a priority.
This refers, in particular, to air defence systems, primarily the MIM-104 Patriot systems and PAC-3 missiles to counter ballistic threats.
Separately, Denys Shmyhal emphasised the need to strengthen passive protection. This involves the construction of concrete shelters with pre-detonation screens for all energy facilities. According to him, this work must be ongoing, and protective structures must cover all facilities within the power system.
The Minister also noted that Ukraine’s energy system requires an additional 6.5 gigawatts of capacity. Of this total, 4.5 gigawatts are planned to be restored through repairs, with a further two gigawatts to be added via distributed cogeneration and renewable energy.
He reported that Ukrainian specialists have already inspected eight decommissioned thermal power stations in Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, Austria and Croatia. Based on the findings, equipment suitable for transfer to Ukraine has been identified. Preparations are currently underway for its delivery and transfer to the damaged facilities.
In addition, Ukraine needs to create a reserve of equipment to speed up repair work. The cost of such a reserve is estimated at approximately €293 million.
