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December 8, 2023On December 7th, the electricity consumption level in Ukraine reached its maximum since the beginning of the heating season.
Vladimir Kudritsky, the CEO of ‘Ukrenergo,’ disclosed this information. He mentioned that the power of several thermal power plant units within the energy system was insufficient to fully cover this record-breaking consumption.
‘Ukrenergo’ was compelled to seek emergency assistance from Slovakia, Poland, and Romania to ensure the energy system continued to function safely and efficiently under such challenging conditions. Kudritsky explained that the main power grid of ‘Ukrenergo,’ responsible for transmitting electricity from power plants to regional networks, doesn’t have bottlenecks today and operates without constraints. However, the existing generation in Ukraine finds it challenging to meet consumption during periods of increased demand due to colder weather.
Two factors could compensate for the electricity deficit: a swift return of repaired units in thermal power plants and an increase in the volume of electricity imported from European countries.
‘Today, electricity imports were severely limited. ‘Ukrenergo’ facilitated imports from Europe at a level of 1700 MW, almost the capacity of two nuclear units. This import, for instance, would have been more than sufficient to eliminate the need for emergency assistance. Unfortunately, due to economic and regulatory reasons, this import is significantly restricted from entering the Ukrainian energy system. Essentially, ‘Ukrenergo’ has to support Ukrainian generation by seeking assistance from neighbors,’ noted Kudritsky.
He also urged everyone, if possible, to limit electricity consumption from nine in the morning until six in the evening.