Each year, the Ukrainian Energy Security Dialogue brings together Ukrainian, European, and American experts, as well as representatives from government and business, to discuss critical challenges and strategies in the energy sector. This year’s event once again served as a platform for frank discussions aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s energy resilience during wartime and preparing for the future.
For the third year, russia has been attempting to destroy Ukraine’s energy system. Over 1,600 missiles of various types and nearly 700 attack drones have been launched during massive assaults on our energy infrastructure. More than 50% of generation capacity was lost. Yet, energy workers continue to ensure that Ukraine remains powered and heated daily.
During the opening of the Energy Security Dialogue, Olena Pavlenko, President of the DiXi Group think tank, emphasized:
“This is our third wartime winter and the fourth Energy Security Dialogue. The aggressor still tries to plunge us into darkness, having destroyed over 50% of our energy infrastructure. But we must maintain the light and make it constant for Ukrainians. Rebuilding the energy system is a task for all of us. We are glad that distinguished journalists are joining the discussions, as they influence public perception. We are also pleased to invite businesses to participate, because even the best laws won’t work without practical implementation. The Energy Security Dialogue is becoming more diverse in its views, which is great. Together, we can overcome the darkness.”
This year’s Energy Security Dialogue welcomed new participants from business, media, and the international community. The event featured panel discussions that significantly contributed to defining Ukraine’s energy resilience. Additionally, the conference showcased the joint document by DiXi Group and the European University Institute, titled “Supporting Ukraine’s Energy Sector: Keeping Ukraine’s Accession to the EU in Sight”. The presentation was delivered by Olena Pavlenko and energy expert Andris Piebalgs, former EU Commissioner for Energy (2004-2010). The key message of this document is that successfully rebuilding Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, ensuring energy security, and advancing EU integration require combining short-term crisis response measures with long-term strategies. These strategies should focus on decarbonization, modernizing energy grids, and leveraging digital innovations. Integrating Ukraine into European energy and industrial strategies, alongside securing international support and investments, is critical for its recovery and successful adaptation to EU standards.
Energy Shield: Ukrainian Resilience with International Support
The first discussion began with an analysis of Ukraine’s preparations for the heating season, the challenges facing the energy sector, and the importance of international assistance. Participants emphasized that partner support remains a key element of the country’s energy resilience.
“For us, it is important that these discussions transition into practical action. The topic of energy security is significant not only in the context of the present but also for the future. We are discussing not just the current winter but also long-term prospects. Our strength lies in our ability to think ahead,” said Anton Antonenko, Vice President of DiXi Group and moderator of the discussion, opening the first panel.
Roman Andarak, Deputy Minister of Energy of Ukraine, highlighted in his speech that energy independence is currently a task for the entire society.
“Systematic attacks on energy infrastructure are the greatest challenge. More than a thousand attacks confirm that the energy sector has become a targeted focus of aggression,” he said. Particularly dangerous are strikes on substations connected to nuclear power plants, which can lead not only to blackouts but also to the shutdown of industrial production in the country, as well as attacks on cross-border transmission lines, which enable the import of up to 2.5 GW of electricity from the EU.
“These attacks also have a psychological impact – aiming to break the population’s morale and undermine its resilience. But we continue to work, and international support is critically important for our victory,” Roman Andarak added.
The Deputy Minister also noted that stopping the transit of Russian gas is a crucial issue this winter. It will no longer be a decisive factor for supplies to Europe or Ukraine’s regions. “What seemed impossible a few years ago is now becoming a reality, and as of January 1, this has been officially confirmed. For Europe, this will no longer be a critical factor in the region’s energy situation,” emphasized Roman Andarak.
Among other points, Andarak highlighted the growing role of cyber threats. “A few days before massive shelling, we record large-scale cyberattacks. This shows that the enemy acts systematically, combining physical and digital impacts,” he added.
Speaking about preparations for future winter seasons, he stressed the importance of addressing not only today’s challenges but also developing long-term strategies to ensure energy security.
The CEO of the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine (GTSOU), Dmytro Lyppa, outlined the strategy for developing Ukraine’s gas transmission system and preparing for a potential cessation of Russian gas transit.
“We are ready for any challenges. Our goal is to ensure stable gas supply within Ukraine when transit through Russia stops. To achieve this, we are actively working on securing alternative gas supply routes through Poland, Moldova, and other Central European countries, made possible through cooperation with international partners,” Lyppa stated.
He also highlighted the potential of Ukraine’s gas transmission system and the importance of its modernization.
According to him, GTSOU currently manages 511 compressor units, though only 10 are in operation, demonstrating significant potential for adaptation to new conditions. The company is actively working on establishing alternative gas supply sources, particularly through Poland and the Balkans.
“We have created guaranteed capacity for gas supply from Moldova, which opens new opportunities for Ukraine. Currently, it stands at 1 million cubic meters per day, with plans to increase it to 7 million cubic meters,” said the CEO of GTSOU. “Additionally, we have received confirmation of guaranteed capacity from Slovakia, enabling the transportation of up to 42 million cubic meters of gas per day until the end of winter 2026,” Dmytro Lyppa added.
Assessing the partnership and cooperation with ENTSO-E, Serhiy Nazarenko, Head of the Office for Threat Identification and Counteraction to Critical Infrastructure Objects at NPC Ukrenergo, emphasized that the importance of synchronizing Ukraine’s system with the European one cannot be overstated.
“Ukraine disconnected from Russia’s energy system at the start of the full-scale invasion, and our energy system withstood the challenge. This was made possible thanks to years of preparation — technical, organizational, and legal,” he noted.
Serhiy Nazarenko also highlighted that membership in ENTSO-E allows Ukraine to participate in strategy development, discussions on energy system growth, and market interactions.
“Today, no energy system in the world could withstand such aggression on its own. Ukraine has had to develop unique methods for assessing and countering threats. This experience is also valuable for our European partners since hybrid threats, including cyberattacks and information operations, are a shared challenge,” he added.
In turn, Frank Reier, Vice-Chair of the ENTSO-E System Operation Committee, speaking at the DiXi Group Energy Security Dialogue 2024 conference, emphasized the importance of developing technical infrastructure to strengthen energy security and integrate Ukraine into the European energy space.
“Imports are a matter of the present. We started from zero, and now we have 2.1 GW of imports for Ukraine and are working to increase permissible exports. Technical infrastructure must be considered. Ukraine has an interesting energy mix with the potential to export nuclear energy and renewables. Full integration into all EU processes is necessary,” he stated.
Alan Riley, a member of the DiXi Group Supervisory Board, noted that it is premature to focus too much on what to expect post-war and what reconstruction might look like, as winter has just begun, and international partners still have opportunities to positively influence the situation.
“It is critically important to secure additional air defense systems. To achieve this, influential former officials should be engaged to advocate for the transfer of such systems to Ukraine. Additionally, state support and international funding are needed to address issues with the cost of imported electricity and equipment. And, of course, the country urgently needs more generators this winter,” Alan Riley emphasized.
Janez Kopač, a member of the DiXi Group Supervisory Board and former Director of the Energy Community Secretariat (2012–2021), noted that a study on the European Green Deal was presented in October. This study envisions a combination of decentralized generation and renewable energy sources (RES). For Ukraine, such a combination could become the cornerstone of energy security and resilience.
In conclusion, the panel participants emphasized that the future of Ukraine’s energy security depends on continued international assistance, investments in renewable energy, and the consolidation of efforts by all sector players.
Energy Security and Climate Goals: Synergy or Contradiction
The panel discussion titled “Energy Security and Climate Goals: Synergy or Contradiction?” focused on a complex question: can ambitious climate goals be aligned with energy security, especially during wartime, when the energy sector itself is a target? Panelists explored the possibility of balancing these two aspects under current conditions. The discussion was moderated by chief editor of the Kyiv Independent Olga Rudenko.
Mykola Kolisnyk, Deputy Minister of Energy of Ukraine, emphasized the importance of renewable energy (RES) development at both the distributed generation level and larger facilities with capacities exceeding 20 MW. He highlighted the necessity of implementing quota mechanisms and auctions through Ukrenergo for ancillary services.
“Ukraine has significant potential for developing RES, including hydropower and biomass, and should actively utilize its agricultural potential to create a ‘green mix’ of bioenergy, solar, wind, and geothermal solutions,” he noted.
The deputy minister also stressed Ukraine’s potential in wind and solar generation and geothermal technologies. Currently, the Ministry of Energy is working on creating regional energy independence passports, considering local specifics for renewable energy development and distributed generation.
“Ukraine is a country integrating into the European Union, and therefore, we are also aligned with the paradigm of renewable energy and alternative energy sources development, which is a key EU requirement,” Kolisnyk emphasized.
Additionally, he highlighted prospects for nuclear power development and the need to establish investment parks. Following neighboring countries’ examples, these parks should offer investors key conditions such as affordable energy, free grid connections, and tax benefits.
Anastasiia Vereshchynska, Director of the European-Ukrainian Energy Agency, stressed the critical importance of new decentralized generation for Ukraine’s energy security. She clarified that this is not just about businesses installing solar power plants for self-consumption but also about grid-connected power plants. She added that there are over 4 GW of ready-to-go wind energy projects requiring financing, which cannot be realized without a guaranteed electricity purchase mechanism.
Yolanda García Mesquita, Head of Unit at DG ENER for Member States and Energy Community Relations, highlighted the necessity of energy transformation to address climate challenges. She underscored the importance of integrating renewable energy sources into the energy system and involving consumers in energy markets.
“Ukraine is making significant efforts on its path toward European integration. The National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) is a powerful tool for attracting investments. However, the energy transition is a forward path. We need to decarbonize, use renewable energy sources, and enhance energy efficiency,” she added.
Oleksii Orzhel, Head of the Kyiv Office of the Energy Community, stressed that Ukraine must align with European standards:
“In Ukraine, there are no alternatives: every business process is oriented toward European partners. This includes exporting biomethane and, before the attacks, exporting electricity, including from renewable energy sources.”
He also noted that climate goals pose significant challenges for Ukraine, but meeting them, and thus progressing toward EU membership, is existentially crucial. “The Energy Community serves as a bridge for implementing European solutions, norms, and standards in the energy sector. Even though Ukraine is not yet an EU member, this provides an opportunity to be fully integrated into EU energy markets before becoming a full-fledged member of the European Union,” he concluded.
Yolanda García Mesquita also confirmed that Ukraine is already part of the European energy community and is advancing toward European integration. She emphasized that the EU will continue to support Ukraine in harmonizing gas-related legislation, which is essential for exports, particularly biomethane. According to her, Europe recognizes Ukraine’s enormous biogas potential, which could eventually displace natural gas and reduce dependence on it.
Conclusion: Balancing energy security and climate goals is achievable through the use of existing tools and international experience. Ukraine’s energy security is not only about surviving in wartime but also about strategic planning for the future.
Generators of Solutions: how Businesses and Communities Build Their Own Energy Independence
The next panel discussion, “Generators of Solutions: How Businesses and Communities Build Their Own Energy Independence,” focused on energy autonomy, particularly the efforts of businesses and communities in this direction. Businesses presented examples of installing generators, cogeneration systems, and developing solar energy. Discussions also covered investments in decarbonization, green technologies, and hydrogen production. Communities shared experiences transitioning to renewable energy sources, modernizing infrastructure, and creating local energy systems. The discussion was moderated by Olena Froliak, head and presenter of the ICTV program “Fakty” and presenter of the telethon “United News”.
Olena Boichenko, Partner in Deloitte Ukraine’s Consulting Department, noted that a survey conducted by the company in collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce revealed that 88% of businesses are prepared for prolonged power outages, demonstrating a conscious approach. However, research on community capacities showed that only a small percentage have a strategic approach to energy issues. The main barriers for local governments in implementing energy projects include a lack of funding, skilled personnel, and infrastructure limitations.
Andrii Lytvynenko, CEO of Nova Energy, recalled that after the full-scale invasion began, the targeting of oil depots and energy infrastructure caused fuel and energy security problems. In 2022, to ensure uninterrupted operations, Nova Poshta installed 4,000 generators with a total capacity of 36 MW at its branches and sorting terminals. By 2024, the company opted for more environmentally friendly and efficient solutions to achieve energy autonomy. Branches are now equipped with uninterrupted power supplies, and sorting terminals feature gas cogeneration plants and solar power stations. Such projects are currently implemented at five of the company’s sorting centers, with investments amounting to $13.6 million.
Oleksandr Dombrovskyi, Deputy Chairman of the MHP Board and President of MHP Eco Energy, highlighted that the company is working on technological solutions for decarbonization by 2030, as well as developing biogas, biomethane projects, and solar generation (15 MW in 2024, with a potential of 800 MW across MHP facilities). The company is also integrating green hydrogen production with biomethane technologies at its in-house laboratory in Ukraine. Dombrovskyi emphasized that solar panels are a faster and simpler option compared to wind power plants, which require year-long weather studies. However, both solar and wind projects need energy storage systems for integration.
Vasyl Novachok, Deputy Mayor of Khmelnytskyi, spoke about an initiative supported by USAID to build an electricity transmission system that connects key facilities, including a municipal heat production enterprise, water utilities, hospitals, and other institutions.
He stressed that local generation is not only economically viable but also strategically critical. According to Novachok, the heat production enterprise was initially conceived as a business model due to its combined heat and power generation. He also emphasized the need for long-term energy security planning with a 10–20 year horizon.
“Loans with 5–7% interest rates for building solar power plants, given a tariff of 10 UAH/kWh, pay off within two years. This is an excellent example of how communities can invest in their energy independence,” added Novachok.
Borys Pakholiuk, Head of the Zhytomyr City Development Agency, reported that Zhytomyr was the first city in Ukraine to sign a political declaration to transition to renewable energy sources and achieve climate neutrality by 2050. Over the past decade, the city has reduced CO2 emissions by more than 36% and built Ukraine’s first cogeneration plant based on the Organic Rankine Cycle system, operating on biomass. Zhytomyr has also converted all street lighting to LED lamps, cutting electricity consumption for street lighting in half. These and other achievements became possible due to systematic efforts and the implementation of a local energy management system developed since 2015.
Speakers concluded that the main challenges include a lack of strategic approaches in communities, insufficient long-term planning, and a shortage of qualified specialists. Participants highlighted the importance of systematic approaches and integrating innovative solutions to ensure energy security.
The Ukrainian Energy Security Dialogue 2024 once again confirmed the importance of open dialogue between the government, businesses, communities, and international partners. Together, we are shaping a new energy reality for Ukraine — strong, resilient, and future-oriented.
The event was organized by the NGO “DiXi Group” under the patronage of the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine, with financial support from the International Renaissance Foundation as part of the project “Improving Energy Security for Tomorrow,” and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Ukraine. The event’s informational partners included the Energy Community, Starlight Media, and Kyiv Independent.
Source: DiXi Group
