Ukraine Prepares for Winter Challenges: How Much Gas Is Needed for Stability and What Experts Say
In response to the challenges this winter may bring, Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy announced details regarding the volume of natural gas imports necessary for a safe heating season.
Deputy Minister Mykola Kolisnyk stated that during planning, they account for gas losses caused by damage to infrastructure due to enemy shelling.
He emphasized that import volumes should match these losses — around 2 billion cubic meters — and noted that the repair of equipment is progressing successfully, making this target achievable overall.
Preparations for winter are complicated by declining underground storage reserves, but thanks to active imports, reserves have already approached last year’s levels.
Experts estimate that an additional roughly 4 billion cubic meters of gas will be needed, requiring about 2 billion euros in funding.
In the broader EU context, preparations are underway to ban Russian gas imports entirely by 2027, posing further challenges for Ukraine.
Despite the difficulties, Ukrainian energy officials remain optimistic that their efforts in restoring infrastructure and increasing imports will ensure citizens are warmly sheltered during potentially severe winter conditions.