Could solar power be the backbone of Ukraine's energy system?

The war against Ukraine has led to massive destruction of the energy infrastructure. One consequence of this is blackouts in cities. In the future, renewables such as wind and solar power could form the backbone of Ukraine’s electricity system. (Image: Oleksii Maznychenko / Adobe Stock)

Can solar power help prevent corruption in Ukraine?

They have determined that solar and wind energy would quickly deliver a distributed power supply system and prevent corruption. The war against Ukraine has led to massive destruction of the energy infrastructure. One consequence of this is blackouts in cities.

How much energy can Ukraine generate?

This technical potential is enormous. The researchers estimate that the potential for wind energy is around 180 gigawatts, while for solar energy it’s around 39 gigawatts. A total capacity of 219 gigawatts would vastly exceed the generation capacity of 59 gigawatts that Ukraine had at the start of the war.

What can Russia's research results tell us about Ukraine's energy infrastructure?

The research results can serve as a scientific basis for selecting specific energy projects and rebuilding the country’s energy infrastructure. One of the main targets of Russia’s ongoing attacks on Ukraine is the energy infrastructure.

Is Russia targeting Ukraine's energy system?

Ukraine’s energy system 1 has been regularly targeted by Russia since its full-scale invasion in 2022, with attacks intensifying since the spring of 2024. The targeting of energy infrastructure has had wide-ranging consequences for the provision of energy to Ukrainian households and other consumers.

How important is Ukraine's energy sector?

Ukraine’s air defences provided some protection, but the scale of the attack and the resulting disruption highlighted once again the vital strategic importance of Ukraine’s energy sector, as well as the ever-present risks to the country’s energy supply.