Regions lack almost 300 MW of backup power for critical infrastructure

Ukrainian regions need to strengthen backup power for heat and water supply facilities and prepare for possible prolonged electricity outages in winter. Currently, available backup capacities cover 75.6% of the identified need, with a deficit of 296.2 MW.

The state of preparation for the 2026/27 heating season was discussed at a staff meeting chaired by Minister for Restoration, Infrastructure and Transport Mykola Kalashnyk.

The total updated need of heat and water supply facilities for backup power is 1,214.6 MW. As of August 12, 918.5 MW have been provided. By the start of the heating season, regions are instructed to increase backup power by 20% in accordance with the indicators of the Comprehensive Resilience Plans.

About 60% of facilities are already prepared

According to the ministry, as of August 1, 83,553 residential buildings, or 58% of the plan, have been prepared for the autumn-winter period. Among social sphere facilities, 14,962 are ready, which is 62.7%.

Also, 10,590 boiler houses, or 61.7% of the planned number, and over 10.4 thousand km of heating networks have been prepared. 2,457 water pumping stations and 1,516 sewage pumping stations are ready for operation.

The next control readiness indicator is set for September 1 - 80%. Regions must fully complete preparations by October 1, 2026.

Regions will prepare for emergency scenarios

Oblasts were instructed to conduct command-staff exercises to practice actions in case of emergencies at heat, electricity, gas and water supply facilities.

Regions must also check backup heat supply systems, form emergency stocks of equipment and materials, and update temporary heat supply plans. Separately, the government expects information on staffing of utility enterprises and shortage of workers in critical specialties.

"Every region must be ready for different scenarios: from prolonged power outages to damage to critical infrastructure facilities", - emphasized Kalashnyk.

According to him, preparation for winter in wartime conditions should include not only planned repairs, but also backup power sources, alternative heat supply, equipment stock, trained personnel and action algorithms for emergency situations.

Based on materials: Ministry for Restoration, Infrastructure and Transport of Ukraine