The head of the State Energy Efficiency Agency, Valery Bezus, discussed with representatives of the Embassy of the Republic of Austria in Ukraine ways to continue cooperation between Ukraine and Austria in energy efficiency, decarbonization, and renewable energy.

Despite all the difficulties of the war unleashed by Russia, Ukraine holds the energy front and works on the prospect of EU membership. In particular, within the framework of the European integration commitments, considerable progress has been made in implementing EU directives in terms of energy efficiency and renewable energy.

"Implementing modern European practices regarding energy efficiency policy is a constant priority of Ukraine. That is why we value the practical exchange of experience and cooperation with EU countries, including Austria," Valery Bezus emphasized.

The Chairman also outlined the active work on developing the legal framework for the implementation of the Law of Ukraine "On Energy Efficiency".

The parties paid special attention to the possibilities of developing Ukrainian bioenergy, which has a significant potential for replacing energy resources.

In particular, the development of the production and use of biomethane corresponds to national interests in energy security and European energy policy. The relevance of this direction is due to the need to diversify sources of energy supply, replace gas imports, load the GTS and promote the decarbonization of the economy in the future.

"To unlock the development of bioenergy in the biomethane segment, all resources were accumulated at the state level. The corresponding law was adopted, the operating procedure of the biomethane register was approved, changes were made to the GTS and GTM Codes regarding the conditions of biomethane supply. We are currently working on developing the biomethane register, studying the experience of European partners, including Austrian ones," the Chairman said.

Valery Bezus also emphasized the importance of using a cluster approach for the highest possible recovery of the regions of Ukraine.

In turn, Gabriele Haselsberger, Trade Counselor of the Embassy of Austria in Ukraine, assured of her sincere interest in supporting Ukraine and promoting investment in the reconstruction of the country.

The directions of cooperation between the two countries will be discussed in detail at the meeting of the Ukrainian-Austrian mixed commission at the end of November this year.