What to expect in winter: the possibility of up to 20 hours without light

Experts of the Center for Combating Disinformation (CCP) warn about the possibility of long-term power outages this winter. Depending on the intensity of attacks and weather conditions, periodic outages can last from 12 to 20 hours a day, according to an analysis by the Institute for Energy Strategies. An optimistic scenario assumes the restoration of up to 3 GW of damaged capacity, which could reduce outages to 12 hours daily.

In a more pessimistic scenario, the restoration of power units may be limited to 2,000 megawatts, which, together with the reduction in the number of working units at the nuclear power plant, may lead to 20-hour interruptions in the supply of electricity.

In the worst-case scenario, when attacks on energy facilities continue with increased intensity, Ukrainians may face outages of up to 20 hours a day, without the possibility of heating or lighting.

Serhii Nagornyak, a member of the Energy Committee of the Verkhovna Rada, points out that under favorable conditions of -10°C, Ukrainians can have access to electricity for only 12-14 hours, which, in turn, reduces the efficiency of household and industrial consumers.

The Center for Combating Disinformation also emphasizes the importance of public and business preparedness for possible outages. In addition to government measures, it is advisable to have backup power systems such as power banks, diesel generators and solar panels that can provide basic power needs during emergencies.

It is also noted that Western aid, including financing in the amount of 800 million dollars for the modernization of the energy system, plays a key role in ensuring the sustainability of the Ukrainian energy sector for the future.