Energy system battery Ukraine

Why is Ukraine using high-capacity batteries?

With Russia regularly knocking out Ukraine’s power grid, the country has turned to high-capacity batteries to keep it connected to the world—and itself. The streets of Kyiv during a blackout last year. Photograph: Mykhaylo Palinchak/Getty Images

How important is Ukraine's energy sector?

Ukraine’s air defences provided some protection, but the scale of the attack and the resulting disruption highlighted once again the vital strategic importance of Ukraine’s energy sector, as well as the ever-present risks to the country’s energy supply.

How many high-capacity lithium-ion batteries are there in Ukraine?

High-capacity lithium-ion batteries mean the base stations, Shchyhol said, “should have reserve power sources for at least three days.” And they can recharge themselves when the power comes back online. Two of the biggest telecommunications firms in Ukraine have, between them, already sourced and installed 22,000 new high-capacity batteries.

Does decentralisation drive energy security in Ukraine?

Despite the high investment risks, the construction of a more decentralised system has begun, increasing resilience to attack and laying the groundwork for a distinctive longer-term transition pathway. In contrast with other countries, where decentralisation has been driven by sustainability concerns, the clear driver in Ukraine is energy security.

How important is interconnection to Ukraine's electricity security?

Interconnection with the main European system 4 has made a crucial contribution to Ukraine’s electricity security, with the limit on cross-border trade 5 increasing to 1.7 GW in November 2023. Before the 2022 invasion, Ukraine's power system was interconnected with the Russian and Belarussian grids.

How has Ukraine managed its electricity deficit?

The deficit has been managed by Ukraine’s state-owned electricity transmission system operator, Ukrenergo, through rolling cuts to supply, limiting electricity provision in the worst-affected regions to a few hours per day.