Norway and UNDP Strengthen Ukraine's Energy Grid with Critical Equipment Delivery

Kyiv, Ukraine - March 27, 2025 – The Government of Norway, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has made a significant contribution to enhancing Ukraine's energy resilience by delivering crucial energy equipment. At a ceremony held in Kyiv, representatives from Norway officially handed over certificates for this equipment to three Ukrainian energy companies, marking a key development in efforts to rebuild and fortify Ukraine's energy infrastructure amid ongoing conflict.

Estimated Reconstruction Needs

As of December 2024, the total reconstruction needs for Ukraine's energy sector are estimated at approximately $67.78 billion. The regions most in need include Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Odesa, and Sumy oblast. The conflict has had dire consequences for the energy system, resulting in power outages that have impacted around 1.5 million people, disrupting vital services such as heating, water supply, public transportation, telecommunications, healthcare, and education.

Details of the Equipment Delivered

The ceremony featured the handover of several key pieces of equipment:

  • Gas-fired Piston Engine Generators: The delivery included high-efficiency generators with a total capacity of approximately 150 megawatts for Naftogaz, Ukraine's state oil and gas company. These generators will provide essential backup power to critical infrastructure and residential areas, ensuring reliable energy supplies during disruptions.

  • Critical Equipment for JSC UkrGasVydobuvannya (UGV): This equipment will support gas production and enhance operational capabilities.

  • 330 kV Autotransformers for Ukrenergo: The delivery also included two high-capacity autotransformers, each with a capacity of 200 MVA, intended for the National Power Company, Ukrenergo. These transformers will improve the efficiency and reliability of Ukraine's electricity transmission network.

Statements from Officials

During the ceremony, Norway's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Espen Barth Eide, emphasized that the delivered equipment is both a short-term solution and a strategic investment in a resilient and sustainable energy future for Ukraine. "Reliable energy is crucial for rebuilding communities and fostering economic recovery," Eide stated, reiterating Norway's commitment to supporting Ukraine through its challenges.

Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko noted that the new equipment would enhance power supply reliability for millions of Ukrainians, aiding essential services and bolstering the nation’s economic recovery. "The support from Norway is vital for Ukrainians," Galushchenko remarked, expressing gratitude for Norway’s ongoing commitment.

Roman Chumak, Acting Chairman of the Board for Naftogaz, acknowledged the significance of the support from Norway and UNDP during this challenging time for Ukraine’s energy sector. He highlighted the importance of the new equipment in increasing resilience against contemporary challenges.

Oleksii Brekht, Acting Chairman of the Management Board of Ukrenergo, noted the critical role of effective logistics during wartime, stating that the autotransformers would expedite the restoration of power facilities damaged in the conflict. He also expressed gratitude to both the UNDP and the Norwegian government for their support.

UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, Jaco Cilliers, expressed pride in the collaboration with Norway, pointing out that the initiative exemplifies UNDP's commitment to facilitating essential services and fostering a prosperous future for Ukrainian communities.

Impact of the Initiative

This initiative is part of the UNDP’s Green Energy Recovery Programme, representing a substantial step forward in securing Ukraine's energy future. The newly delivered equipment will support critical infrastructure, ensuring essential services remain operational and contributing to economic recovery efforts.

The ongoing conflict has severely damaged over 60% of Ukraine’s energy facilities, and sadly, more than 100 energy workers have lost their lives while working to restore essential services. The urgency of the situation highlights the importance of international partnerships, such as that between Norway and UNDP, in providing much-needed support to Ukraine's energy sector.

Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

The partnership between the Government of Norway and UNDP aims to not only deliver equipment but also provide technical assistance and capacity-building programs to foster a resilient and sustainable energy future for Ukraine. This initiative is already making a positive impact, benefiting millions of Ukrainians by improving essential services and modernizing the energy sector.

For further information, please contact:
Yuliia Samus
UNDP Ukraine Communications Team Leader
Email: yuliia.samus@undp.org

This collaboration epitomizes the collective efforts to address Ukraine's energy challenges and highlights the ongoing commitment of international stakeholders to support recovery and reconstruction efforts in the country.