EBRD to support restoration and modernization of Ukrhydroenergo's hydroelectric power plants
22 June 2023
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is to assist in the restoration and modernization of Ukrhydroenergo's hydroelectric power plants in the Ukraine, including the Kakhovka plant. The commitment was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Prime Minister of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso, and Ukrhydroenergo CEO Ihor Syrota.
The primary objective of this agreement is to address the operational challenges faced by Ukrhydroenergo's hydropower plants due to the impact of the Russian invasion. The joint efforts of the Government of Ukraine, Ukrhydroenergo, and the EBRD will focus on replacing critical equipment, enhancing operational reliability, and improving efficiency across the hydroelectric power plants. Moreover, the memorandum seeks to identify potential investment opportunities, with a particular emphasis on the reconstruction of the Kakhovka hydropower plant and its associated infrastructure following the devastating explosion in early June.
"I am grateful to the Government of Ukraine and international partners, particularly the EBRD, for their comprehensive support in implementing Ukrhydroenergo's key task - restoring hydropower facilities. I am convinced that by working together, we will restore the lost capacity and increase the security of our energy infrastructure," expressed Igor Syrota, CEO of Ukrhydroenergo.
In recent developments related to Kakhovka, on June 19, experts from Ukrhydroenergo, based on their analysis of photos and videos from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), concluded that the water level in the reservoir could fall below 7m. This situation highlights the urgent need for intervention and underscores the significance of the restoration efforts.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center has reported a continuous decline in water levels at the Kherson post. Overnight, the water level dropped by 20cm, reaching 0.79 meters below sea level as of 8:00 a.m. on June 19.
To address these challenges, Ukrhydroenergo and the design institute are collaborating on a project to construct a cofferdam for the Kakhovka reservoir after de-occupation. Additionally, Ukrhydroenergo workers remain dedicated to providing humanitarian aid to those affected by the explosion at the plant.
