As a result of massive attacks on Kyiv’s critical infrastructure, one of the capital’s thermal power plants has been destroyed and cannot be restored, according to media reports.
As a result of a series of massive Russian strikes on Kyiv’s critical infrastructure, one of the capital’s thermal power plants can no longer be restored. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing anonymous sources familiar with the matter, according to Glavred.
The article notes that Kyiv has been in an energy crisis for several weeks following a series of massive Russian attacks on critical infrastructure facilities. The most destructive strikes occurred on January 9, 13, 20, and 24, damaging key electricity, heating, and water supply facilities.
“One of the thermal power plants cannot be restored,” the source told the publication.
As a result, the energy system was temporarily stabilized through strict restriction schedules. However, on January 31, the situation significantly worsened again due to a major technical failure in the networks, which led to cascading outages in seven regions and effectively reignited the crisis in the capital.
The return of severe frosts coincided with new problems in the energy system, leaving thousands of Kyiv homes without heat once again. The most difficult situation developed in Troieshchyna, where a large portion of residential buildings has been without heating for an extended period.
Will Kyiv be evacuated
According to Kateryna Pop, spokesperson for the Kyiv City Military Administration, evacuation is currently not being considered or planned despite the forecasted frosts, as the city has already experienced similar conditions. Kyiv has an extensive network of “Points of Invincibility” and heating centers, which are fully prepared to accommodate people.
She said that more than 1,400 “Points of Invincibility” are operating in the capital. About 700 of them are located at social infrastructure facilities in the districts, over 500 are provided by responsible businesses, and there are also heating points run by the State Emergency Service (DSNS).
She also noted that additional support points for temporary accommodation are being set up in districts for people facing difficult heating situations. Currently, due to the restoration of hourly electricity schedules, attendance at the “Points of Invincibility” remains low.
“When the situation with heating and electricity was more difficult, attendance at the points was higher because people came primarily to charge their devices, flashlights, power banks, and phones, and to keep warm. Now the number of visitors has slightly decreased, but in any case, the points continue to operate specifically in the districts where the situation with heating and electricity is the most difficult and recovery requires the most resources. We also emphasize the importance of public preparedness, so we urge Kyiv residents to have stocks of food, water, and medicine, and to keep warm clothes and charged power banks ready. We will get through this winter, whatever it may be,” she stressed.
When Power Outage Schedules Might End – Expert Opinion
As previously reported by Glavred, it is not worth expecting a reduction or cancellation of power outages with the arrival of warmer weather. This was stated by energy expert Hennadiy Ryabtsev.
According to him, electricity restrictions will remain in place until two key conditions are met.
“First, until we have enough means to intercept all Russian drones and missiles targeting our energy facilities, and second, until new generation is connected to the United Energy System. In other words, until we have something to replace what has been knocked out by Russia,” he explained.
Power Outages in Ukraine – Latest News
As previously reported by Glavred, energy providers have restored electricity supply across Ukraine following a major systemic failure that occurred on Saturday morning. This was announced by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Denys Shmyhal.
At the same time, the risk of repeated mass outages and new systemic failures in the future cannot be completely ruled out, noted energy expert Yuriy Korolchuk.
Vadym Lytvyn, chairman of the Board of the Ukrainian Energy Auditors Association, also commented on the possibility of temporarily suspending hot water supply in large cities, including Kyiv, to conserve heat. According to him, usually around 70% of energy capacity is directed to heating and approximately 30% to hot water supply. However, when only about 40% of the required capacity is available, stopping hot water supply allows resources to be redirected to maintain heating.
