The scorching “anomalous heatwave” in Europe and Ukraine is driving electricity consumption to its peak, leading to challenges for the state-owned energy operator Ukrenergo as power plants struggle to meet the soaring demand. Scheduled blackouts have been deemed necessary.
The blistering heatwave is set to persist, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, resulting in a surge in electricity usage primarily for cooling purposes. The strain on Ukraine’s energy grid has been exacerbated by previous Russian aerial attacks.
The unprecedented weather conditions in Kyiv and across Ukraine have broken multiple temperature records, signaling the severity of the heatwave gripping the region. Officials hope for energy improvements post nuclear power unit repairs, but the nation remains on high alert with the grid restoration ongoing.
Ukraine is seeking support to restore damaged energy facilities before winter, with President Zelensky urging allied assistance for equipment and financial aid to maintain normalcy amidst the energy crisis.