KYIV, 17 October 2023 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Ukrhydroenergo, Ukraine’s leading hydropower generation company, announced a milestone Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) this week to assess and repair the extensive damages caused to Ukraine’s energy infrastructure because of the Russian invasion. The MOU also includes provisions for assessing the damaged energy sector's human impacts and potential future consequences. 

The destruction of the Kakhovka dam inflicted almost US$14 billion in loss and damage on Ukraine, compounding the already disastrous impacts of Russia’s full-scale invasion, according to a new report released by the Government of Ukraine and the United Nations. The energy sector suffered the most damage and losses amounting to over $5 billion.

The MOU focuses on several crucial areas of collaboration. Firstly, both parties will thoroughly assess all current damages. This will be followed by strategic discussions to ramp up recovery and resilience building within the energy sector, ensuring alignment with Ukraine’s National Energy Strategy. Additionally, the agreement emphasizes securing engagement from both the public and private sectors in rebuilding efforts. Lastly, there will be a concerted effort to establish methodologies and processes that facilitate regular data collection on the status of the energy infrastructures and facilities.

UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Christophoros Politis said mapping out the precise extent of damage isn't just a diagnostic necessity; it's the foundation upon which Ukraine will be able to recover and construct a more resilient future. "This MOU underscores our shared belief that to truly 'build back better', we must first comprehend the full scope of the challenges at hand,” he said. “Through evidence, we can chart a course that not only restores but enhances Ukraine's energy landscape, making it more robust and future-ready than ever."

Ukrhydroenergo Director General Ihor Syrota said his company, which administers many major hydropower plants along the Dnieper and Dniester rivers, is determined to ensure the reliability and resilience of Ukraine’s energy systems. “Expanding our collaboration with UNDP will enable us to assess and address the immediate damages and strategize for a brighter, self-reliant and more sustainable energy future for our country," he said.

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, Communications Team Leader, UNDP in Ukraine; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org