Ukraine is gradually expanding its electricity imports from the European Union, according to statements made by the country’s Energy Minister. German Galushchenko noted that the current import volumes are modest but have been ongoing since the start of the year. The minister explained that a framework now allows Ukrainian businesses to access electricity from regional markets, a move that could influence overall supply dynamics and potential constraints for different sectors. This policy shift is part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to diversify energy sources and stabilize domestic electricity availability amid winter conditions and seasonal demand fluctuations.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Energy expects these import levels to rise as the market adjusts and cross-border transmission capacity improves. The government has signaled its intention to leverage EU energy trade arrangements to bolster reliability during periods of peak consumption and to mitigate the impact of any local supply shortages. These developments come as Ukraine continues to balance domestic production with external supplies to ensure a steady flow of electricity for homes, businesses, and critical infrastructures.
Previously, Ukrenergo, Ukraine’s transmission system operator, observed that after colder weather, there were restrictions placed on electricity consumption to manage the grid load. This experience underscored the importance of flexible import strategies and the ability to draw on external sources when domestic generation faces strain, especially during periods of heightened demand or adverse weather conditions.
Earlier remarks from Minister Galushchenko highlighted a challenging energy landscape where the nation has experienced significant reductions in renewable output. He indicated that wind energy capacity has faced substantial losses, with up to 90 percent of wind generation temporarily unavailable in certain scenarios, and solar generation has fallen by as much as 40 percent in some periods. With renewable generation curtailed, the emphasis shifts toward thermal power plants to meet the bulk of the electricity load. The minister stressed that the primary objective is to secure reliable power during the autumn and winter in particular, while the reliance on thermal generation is expected to extend into the broader year ahead. This shift underscores the ongoing need to diversify energy sources, maintain grid stability, and plan for predictable electricity prices for consumers and industries across Ukraine.