UNDP and Ukrhydroenergo sign MOU to assess damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure
Agreement expands UNDP’s support to Ukraine’s energy sector.
KYIV, 17 October 2023 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Ukrhydroenergo, Ukraine’s leading hydropower generation company, announced a milestone Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) this week to assess and repair the extensive damages caused to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure because of the Russian invasion. The MOU alsoincludes provisions for assessing the damaged energy sector's human impacts and potential future consequences.
The destruction of the Kakhovka dam inflicted almost US$14 billion in loss and damage on Ukraine, compounding the already disastrous impacts of Russia’s full-scale invasion, according to a new report released by the Government of Ukraine and the United Nations. The energy sector suffered the most damage and losses amounting to over $5 billion.
The MOU focuses on several crucial areas of collaboration. Firstly, both parties will thoroughly assess all currentdamages. This will be followed by strategic discussions to ramp up recovery and resilience building within the energy sector, ensuring alignment with Ukraine’s National Energy Strategy. Additionally, the agreement emphasizes securingengagement from both the public and private sectors in rebuilding efforts. Lastly, there will be a concerted effort to establish methodologies and processes that facilitate regular data collection on the status of the energy infrastructures and facilities.
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Christophoros Politis said mapping out the precise extent of damage isn't just a diagnostic necessity; it's the foundation upon which Ukraine will be able to recover and construct a more resilient future.
"This MOU underscores our shared belief that to truly 'build back better', we must first comprehend the full scope of the challenges at hand,” he said. “Through evidence, we can chart a course that not only restores but enhances Ukraine's energy landscape, making it more robust and future-ready than ever."
Ihor Syrota, CEO of Ukrhydroenergo, said that the company, which operates large hydropower plants on the Dnipro and Dniester rivers, is determined to ensure the reliability and resilience of Ukraine's energy system.
"Expanding our cooperation with UNDP will allow us to assess and repair the immediate damage, as well as develop a strategy for a more favorable, self-sufficient and sustainable energy future for our country," said Mr. Syrota.
