Issues surrounding the Chervonograd Central Enrichment Plant and state-owned mines in the Lviv-Volyn basin are raising alarms about preparations for the upcoming heating season of 2026-2027.
According to a local deputy, the situation in Ukraine’s coal sector is deteriorating due to internal challenges, even as global demand for coal surges amid rising energy costs. He pointed out that private entities are increasingly interfering with the operations of state-owned coal enterprises.
“I have reached out to the Ministry of Energy to assess the ongoing interference by private structures in the Lviv-Volyn coal basin, which is affecting state mines, leading to coal theft and various schemes,” stated Mykhailo Bondar.
Bondar emphasized that the issues extend beyond economic concerns, highlighting systemic abuses that jeopardize the entire industry.
He plans to bring this matter before the relevant subcommittee and committee once he receives an official response from the Ministry of Energy.
The deputy also noted alarming incidents related to the disruption of the enrichment plant’s operations.
“Many of you may have seen reports about the arrest of an aide to a member of our committee in Lviv region for coal theft and for blocking the enrichment plant, which, if halted, will render the coal produced non-competitive,” he remarked.
Bondar pointed out that such actions directly impact the financial well-being of miners.
“I was shocked to learn that just before these charges were announced, a committee member was vocally defending miners, while it turns out there were ongoing thefts of coal that should have been sold and declared, with earnings meant for miners’ salaries not being paid,” he stressed.
He added that this situation undermines not only the industry but also public trust in government institutions.
As preparations for the new heating season begin, Bondar asserted that the coal sector remains critically important.
“We must start preparing for the new heating season of 2026-2027, and the coal industry should play a central role in this preparation,” he concluded.
Previously reported, the Chervonograd Central Enrichment Plant in Lviv region has effectively ceased operations. The facility is not accepting coal, has lost power, and is in debt regarding salaries. Meanwhile, raw materials are piling up at the mines without processing.
The miners’ union has noted a sharp deterioration in the situation since the beginning of 2026, claiming that individuals with shadow influence over the industry have reportedly taken control of the enterprise.
This has led to significant negative consequences, including a decline in production at state mines and halted operational processes.
The coal industry in Ukraine faces serious disruptions due to private interference and operational challenges, raising concerns about preparations for the 2026-2027 heating season. The Chervonograd Central Enrichment Plant has ceased operations, further complicating the situation for miners and the sector at large.