The Kyiv Independent has published an interview with Oleksiy Povolotskiy, DTEK's Head of Office for Energy Infrastructure Recovery, exploring the mounting challenges facing Ukraine's energy system as russian attacks intensify and compatible spare parts across Europe become harder to find.
After nearly four years of full-scale invasion and relentless attacks, Ukraine’s stock of compatible equipment could run outwithin the next 12 months.
"The problem is time and money. I try to be optimistic. Maybe another country will modernise its energy facilities next year and give us its old equipment," Povolotskiy told The Kyiv Independent.
This year alone, DTEK has spent $166 million into repairing damaged thermal power plants and coal facilities. But as Ukrainian manufacturers face long production times, the search for compatible equipment has expanded as far as Africa and the Middle East.
International partners have sent more than €1 billion worth of equipment through the Energy Community’s fund. However, recent russian strikes this autumn have been more destructive than in previous years, and compatibility issues continue to limit what can be used. DTEK has had to decline two decommissioned transformers from Switzerland worth $10 million each, while search parties sent to Germany found no suitable replacements.
To speed up emergency repairs, Povolotskiy suggests creating a warehouse outside Ukraine stocked with new and second-hand equipment that can be delivered within one to two weeks after an attack. DTEK is now discussing this proposal with the Energy Ministry whose own reserves are running low.
"With winter approaching, we need our allies' help more than ever," Povolotskiy said of air defence and energy infrastructure.
Read the full interview here
Photo by AFP.
