Germany allocates EUR 70 million to help Ukraine's energy sector

Germany will allocate a winter package worth 70 million euros to provide Ukraine with heat and electricity. With the additional funds, the package will provide Ukrainian cities with small thermal power plants, boilers, generators and solar systems.

This was reported by RBC-Ukraine with reference to the Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany.

As noted in the report, the money is intended to help people in Ukraine live in their homeland and be able to withstand Russian attacks. This is because Russia is deliberately attacking Ukraine's civilian energy infrastructure to destroy the Ukrainian economy and defense forces, and to displace people in the winter.

“Russia wants to exhaust and drive out Ukrainians with its attacks on energy supply. Heat and electricity are vital for the survival of people in Ukraine, especially in winter. Ukraine is resisting this, but needs support. Germany and many allies are firmly on their side,” said the Federal Minister for Development. Svenja Schulze.

According to her, Germany supports Ukraine in restoring energy supply in a decentralized way, because then Russia will no longer be able to destroy it so easily.

“This support is a requirement of solidarity, but it is also in Germany's interest. Because Ukraine also protects our security in Europe and Germany in this war,” she added.

The ministry said that Russia's massive attacks on Ukrainian power plants and power lines in recent months have destroyed 80% of thermal power plants and more than a third of hydroelectric power plants; and the attacks continue.

“The Ministry of Energy of Ukraine believes that significant power outages are unavoidable this winter, despite huge repair work. The consequences will be that apartments will become uninhabitable due to the cold, schools will have to close, and factories will stop producing. Frozen water pipes could burst, jeopardizing water supplies,” the statement said.

The additional support of €70 million is intended to help protect the people of Ukraine from the consequences of these attacks. By rapidly expanding decentralized and flexible energy production through small-scale thermal power plants, boilers, generators and solar systems, the worst effects in the affected cities and towns can be averted. Community centers, hospitals, schools and other social institutions receive a more secure and independent energy supply.

The assistance is targeted to communities whose energy and heating supply has been severely hampered by the destruction and outages. Particular attention is paid to municipalities that have hosted IDPs.

Author - Olena Madiak, 26/09/2024