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.
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