Ukraine sustained critical damage to its power grid and power plants after systematic Russian attacks since 2022. Ukraine’s electricity production plummeted by 70% due to the attacks.
Norway has committed 1.1 billion Norwegian kroner ($105 million) through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to restore energy generation capacity in Ukraine. The funds will specifically support regions in installing solar panels at schools and hospitals, Urinform reports, referring to the communications department at the UNDP.
The enhanced partnership between UNDP and the Norwegian government aims to rebuild Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and create backup power systems for critical facilities across the country. The recent agreement will provide an additional 80 MW of power to the national power grid this winter.
Through UNDP’s Energy Recovery Program, over 1 million people and industrial consumers will receive heat and water supplies. The program will focus on installing solar panels to provide backup power for essential institutions like schools and hospitals.
“Restoring critical energy infrastructure is crucial, as people living in high-rise buildings in large cities have no alternative means of heating and water supply,” said Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine. “UNDP’s renewable energy program demonstrates our commitment to promoting green recovery and ensuring energy security for all Ukrainians.”
The UNDP’s multi-year energy program, supported by various donors, focuses on two main priorities:
1. Urgent restoration of critical energy infrastructure and generating capacity
2. Accelerating the transition to green energy
Pre-war, Ukraine’s more than 1,500 power plants could supply 59 gigawatts of electricity, far exceeding the country’s 22-gigawatt demand. Russian attacks and occupation resulted in a loss of 42 gigawatts, leaving only 17 gigawatts of production capacity.
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