Ukrainian power engineers continue to verify the damage caused to the energy sector by the latest massive Russian attack on March 22. Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Galushchenko said this at a media briefing, UNN reports.
"It was the largest attack in the entire period of the great aggression. We do not yet have a full understanding of how much the facilities have been destroyed. There are large rubble heaps, they are being dismantled now, and not everywhere there is access to equipment to check the condition. As for the amount of damage, the real figures will be clear after the damage is verified. But I think we are talking about billions for sure. Of course, we will continue to demand all these amounts from the aggressor in the relevant lawsuits," the minister said.
Galushchenko clarified that to stabilize the situation in the power system, the issue of suspending electricity exports is not currently being considered: "I do not see today that this will somehow dramatically resolve our situation. There are no decisions on tariffs, the fate of PSO or the export ban. We are now focusing on fixing the consequences of the attacks. Then we will come up with the numbers and the timeframe for recovery, and then we will make decisions on the relevant issues.
At the same time, the head of the Ministry of Energy noted that Ukraine has the opportunity to import electricity from European countries. Currently, it is possible to import up to 1.7 GW, while Ukraine is appealing to ENTSO-E to increase the relevant volumes.
"We need more, because today it is a matter of survival. At least 2.5 GW would be what we need," the minister said.