Ukrainian Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal announced that the government is enhancing both active and passive defenses for the country’s energy infrastructure. This initiative includes bolstering air defense systems and constructing physical shelters, with an estimated funding requirement of 35 billion hryvnias.
During a question-and-answer session in the Verkhovna Rada on March 13, Shmyhal emphasized the importance of these measures in light of ongoing threats. He stated,
“We have a successful experimental project involving critical infrastructure enterprises in the air defense system. We are continuing to build passive protection systems—shelters for energy facilities… However, it is crucial to understand that when five Iskander missiles, each with a half-ton warhead, strike a facility, no defense can guarantee 100% effectiveness.”
Shmyhal noted that all priority energy and oil and gas facilities currently have a basic level of protection against debris and indirect hits. He elaborated that work is ongoing to establish a second level of defense at 84 substations and 134 critical elements, with completion rates of 80% and 95% respectively.
He added,
“The development of protection is a continuous process, as it also suffers constant damage from enemy attacks.”
In addition to these efforts, the gas transportation system operator, Energoatom, Ukrhydroenergo, Centrenergo, Naftogaz, and various private generating companies are also involved in enhancing protective measures.
Shmyhal reiterated the necessity of securing 35 billion hryvnias for these initiatives, stating,
“We are actively working with partners to secure this amount.”
Since January 14, a state of emergency has been in effect in Ukraine’s energy sector, following directives from President Volodymyr Zelensky amid ongoing Russian strikes.
Ukrainian Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal outlined the government's efforts to strengthen defenses for energy infrastructure, emphasizing the need for significant funding. With ongoing threats from Russian missile strikes, the focus is on both active and passive protection measures.