Lowering of the water level in the Dniester reservoir is due to numerous attacks on the energy sector and a shortage of electricity in the Ukrainian power system
As a result of attacks by russian federation on the energy facilities and an emergency situation in the operation of Ukraine’s integrated power system, the mode of operation of the reservoirs of the Dniester Hydro Power Complex during the period from February 24, 2022 has been carried out taking into account the need to cover the electricity deficit.
Since mid-April 2024, discharges from Dniester HPP have been a necessary measure to maintain the stable operation of the power system. Since May 15, the discharges from the Dniester reservoir have been in line with the levels set by the Interagency Commission.
At the same time, in May, the weather conditions with a shortage of precipitation and high air temperatures caused a significant decrease in the water content of the Dniester river and its tributaries. The inflow to the Dniester reservoir is about 30% of the normal one.
As of 8:00 a.m. on May 28, 2024, the water level in the upper reaches is 114.38 m, the inflow to the Dniester reservoir is 90 m3/s. Now, the upper reservoir level is not critical, as an example for comparison, in 2022, due to low water and low inflow, it was 112.57 m.
When regulating the flow of the Dniester River, Dniester HPP is guided by the decision of the Interdepartmental Commission of the State Agency of Water Resources of Ukraine regarding the establishment of the reservoir operation modes, the task and instructions of the dispatch service of NPC Ukrenergo, ensuring coverage of peak, daily and emergency loads in the power system.
Currently, the situation has stabilized and the intensive operation of the reservoir has ceased. It should also be noted that, in accordance with the approved Rules for the Operation of Reservoirs of the Dniester Hydro Power Complex, the Dniester HPP is obliged to discharge at least 110 m3/s on an average daily basis to supply water to downstream settlements. Given that the inflow is currently less than the normal one for this period of the year, the reservoir emptying may continue and is expected to be several centimeters per day.
