Ukrainian energy should develop through decentralization, reform, and support for both public and private sectors, as the energy system requires a comprehensive approach and consistent reforms. This was stated by the European Union Ambassador to Ukraine, Katarina Mathernova, during an extraordinary session of the Kyiv Security Forum focused on Ukraine’s energy sector and economic prospects for 2026.
The diplomat noted that the EU has supported the development of distributed and decentralized energy sources in Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
“I think we have lost quite a lot of time. We could have been further ahead in this direction, as it is now clear to everyone that the future lies in distributed energy, especially given the terrorist attacks we have experienced,” Mathernova said.
She emphasized that, despite significant EU investments in Ukraine’s energy sector, continued support is needed for electricity grids and gas distribution centers. “And we are doing that,” the ambassador assured.
Mathernova agreed with remarks made during the panel discussion that more investment should flow into the private sector. At the same time, she stressed that state-owned companies cannot be left without support.
“This is not an ‘either-or’ situation. The challenge is that we need to work simultaneously with gas, electricity, water, distribution, networks, and sources. It’s a multidimensional chessboard that we are all playing on. So my message is: we (the EU) are here. We see energy as one of the most important sectors and insist on reforms,” the diplomat concluded.
As a result of a massive Russian attack during the night of November 8, a number of major energy facilities in Kharkiv, Poltava, and Kyiv regions were damaged.
Centrenergo reported that due to the Russian strike, all of its thermal power plants have ceased operations and are no longer generating electricity.
