How can the sustain­able moderni­sa­tion of the Ukrainian energy sector succeed, and can the country become a “Green Energy Hub” for Europe in the future?

What oppor­tu­ni­ties, problems and solutions do Ukrainian energy experts see for the sustain­able recon­struc­tion of their country’s energy system? The policy paper “Ukraine’s Path Towards a Sustain­able Energy Sector” summarises the results of our survey study and describes policy recommendations.

In the summer of 2023, the Ukrainian opinion research institute “Rating Group” was commis­sioned by LibMod to ask 52 Ukrainian energy experts from politics, industry and civil society what oppor­tu­ni­ties, problems and approaches they see in the sustain­able recon­struc­tion of their country’s energy system and the debate about the European Green Deal.

The most important finding of the in-depth inter­views is: there is a very clear vision of a climate-friendly Ukraine. And even more: the ecolog­ical moderni­sa­tion of the country is seen as an essential part of EU inte­gra­tion — and as a chance to free itself from post-Soviet structures.

It is also clear that a decen­tralised power supply is a contri­bu­tion to the resilience of the commu­ni­ties against Russian attacks on the energy infra­struc­ture. In this context, moderni­sa­tion also means more security.

However, all assess­ments are dependent on the further course of the war. For without a Ukrainian victory and Western security guar­an­tees, Ukraine and the recon­struc­tion process will be at risk of further Russian attacks. A prolonged war not only prolongs human suffering, but also hinders foreign investment.

In addition, a shortage of skilled workers and training is seen as one of the biggest chal­lenges: Energy experts are needed both in companies and at all levels of government.

The study also shows that commu­ni­ties in Ukraine are the driving force of the ecolog­ical trans­for­ma­tion. Energy security and lower energy costs are the most important motives here. Many small and medium-sized cities and commu­ni­ties are imple­menting various renewable energy projects and have ambitious plans for decen­tral­i­sa­tion and moderni­sa­tion of the energy sector.