The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine and the Government of Japan, in coordination with the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine, has delivered vitally important energy equipment to Kharkiv and Odesa to support critical infrastructure in these cities amid ongoing russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy systems. The handover ceremony took place in Kyiv on November 16.
“We thank UNDP and the Government of Japan for this assistance, which will help meet the needs of residents in Kharkiv and Odesa. The additional power generation facilities in our cities will enhance the reliability of electricity and heat supply this winter,” said Ukraine's Minister of Energy, German Galushchenko.
The support for Kharkiv includes the delivery of 15 Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and a gas turbine – both of which are vital for the city’s critical infrastructure.
In Odesa, two powerful gas-piston cogeneration units will be installed. Together with two previously delivered units, they will cover approximately 50% of the critical infrastructure’s energy needs, ensuring water, heating, and sewage services for the city.
Additionally, with the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), 32 generators will be supplied to ensure water provision.
The equipment transfer was announced during the visit of Japan's newly appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, Iwaya Takeshi, to Kyiv on November 16, 2024. Minister Iwaya emphasized the importance of assisting Ukraine in preparation for the winter, stating:
"Winterization support to Ukraine is crucial as the country enters its third winter since the beginning of the full-scale invasion by russia." He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and enhancing cooperation for effective recovery and reconstruction.
"I would like to express my special gratitude to UNDP and JICA for enabling Japan to provide energy infrastructure equipment for the cities of Kharkiv and Odesa. We are also preparing to hand over more energy equipment for Ukraine," added Minister Iwaya.
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Ukraine Christophoros Politis highlighted that UNDP in Ukraine actively supports the Government of Ukraine in its ongoing efforts to restore and transform the energy infrastructure.
“From supplying water to households and powering industries to supporting national security, energy is vital for the people and economy,” Mr. Politis emphasized. “Strengthening the resilience and sustainability of Ukraine’s energy sector remains a top priority for UNDP.” He also noted that thanks to the strategic partnership with the Government of Japan, UNDP has provided critical energy equipment, ensuring power supply for over 6 million Ukrainians.
Previously, through UNDP, the Government of Japan delivered 2,361 units of generators and charging stations with a total capacity of 25.6 MW, three gas turbines with a capacity of 54 MW, and four autotransformers to support Ukraine’s energy sector.
