Abnormal heat could bring back power outage schedules in Ukraine
Due to the arrival of an abnormal heat wave, Ukraine may face a significant increase in electricity consumption as early as next week. According to forecasts, the load on the power grid could increase by approximately 1 gigawatt, creating the risk of a return to hourly power outages.
What Was Discussed at the Meeting with Energy Officials
At a meeting with the leadership of Ukrenergo, Energoatom, Ukrhydroenergo, Naftogaz, and the National Energy and Utilities Regulatory Commission (NEURC), participants discussed how to maintain balance in the power grid during peak demand.
The situation is complicated by the fact that scheduled maintenance on generating facilities is scheduled for the same period.
What measures are already being taken
The Ministry of Energy has instructed that several steps be taken to ensure stable grid operation:
maintenance schedules at power generation facilities—including nuclear power plant units—have been adjusted;
decisions are being prepared to increase electricity imports, and businesses are being encouraged to purchase imported electricity for their own needs;
they will maximize the use of available domestic generation capacity—primarily additional gas-fired capacity and existing thermal power plant capacity.
“We expect that these and additional measures will fully meet consumer needs,” said Denys Shmyhal.
Are restrictions on businesses possible?
At the same time, Ukrenergo is preparing for the possible implementation of power restriction schedules for industry and businesses if the load on the grid becomes critical.
Energy officials are urging the public to conserve electricity during peak hours—from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
This was reported with reference to a post by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal.
Ukrenergo has issued a forecast for power outages on July 29.
In Crimea, the occupiers are unable to establish schedules for electricity supply and gasoline sales.
On the temporarily occupied Crimean Peninsula, local residents report prolonged power outages, fuel shortages, rising prices, and problems with the functioning of social infrastructure. According to them, the situation is particularly difficult in the northern regions of the peninsula.
