Ukraine uses energy package on wind turbines
In the face of almost daily Russian attacks, Ukraine's energy network is under constant repair. But the country isn't content with repairs. It's also developing a new network, with wind turbines.
At the Davos Forum, Ukraine unveiled its wind power plan. With 90% of the country's energy infrastructure destroyed or damaged, Kiyv is proactively installing wind turbines. These can replace gas- or coal-fired power plants bombarded by the Russians. For example, the Tyligulska farm in the Mykolaïv region, some 50km from the front line; the first to be built in wartime.
Almost half a billion euros
For the second phase of construction, the Ukrainian private company DTEK has announced an investment of 450 million euros. It will be the largest wind farm complex in Eastern Europe for 10 years. Currently, it can already supply 114 megawatts (MW) per year. With this new investment boost, its capacity will rise to 500 MW/year. DTEK will purchase 64 turbines from Denmark's Vestas. Once deployed, this farm will have the capacity to power 900,000 Ukrainian households.
Paradox of war
In the Swiss resort of Davos, Maxim Timchenko, CEO of DTEK, was accompanied by President Volodymyr Zelensky. One of the aims of this presence was to demonstrate Ukraine's resilience in convincing foreign investors. Denmark has already heeded this call by supporting 15 Danish projects in Ukraine via a guarantee provided by EIFO, an official credit insurance organization. Ukraine is thus following the path of decarbonization, replacing its old power plants, especially seeing as wind turbines are harder for missiles to shoot down.
As good as it gets
On the ground, with regards to the power plants that are still operational despite the bombardments, Ukrainian engineers and workers are showing courage and ingenuity to get what can be put back into operation. Even though this is becoming increasingly difficult with Putin's relentless efforts, especially seeing as wind power can currently cover only 5% of energy needs. Even the installation of wind turbines that have already been installed has been epic. They had to deal with the cold, bombardments and supply and logistics problems.
(MH with Olivier Duquesne - Source : Le Figaro - Picture : © picture alliance - Nina Lyashonok / Avalon)