Impact of Russian Attacks on Ukraine’s Energy Sector
Ukraine’s largest private power firm DTEK reported on March 29 that three thermal power plants were damaged by Russian missiles and drone strikes. This latest aerial attack targeted Ukraine’s energy sector, resulting in severe damage to facilities overnight.
Details of the Attacks
- Three DTEK thermal power plants were attacked, with equipment suffering significant damage.
- Local reports indicated that at least five people were wounded in Russian strikes in the Kamianske district.
- Explosions were heard in various regions, including Ivano-Frankivsk, Khmelnytskyi, and Dnipro, as Russian cruise missiles entered Ukrainian airspace.
Impact on Power Facilities
Ukrenerho, the Ukrainian power grid operator, confirmed that Russia damaged thermal and hydroelectric power plants in central and western regions. Emergency shutdowns were reported in southeastern Dnipropetrovsk Province, with power facilities also affected in Poltava and Cherkasy regions.
Consequences for DTEK and Ukraine
Due to the attacks, DTEK has lost approximately 50 percent of its capacity, leading Kyiv to cease power exports and rely on imports. Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko stated that facilities in Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, and Cherkasy regions were targeted by drones and missiles.
Ukraine’s military reported destroying 58 drones launched by Russia overnight, along with intercepting 26 out of 39 missiles. The commander emphasized the significant impact of the missile and air strikes on Ukraine’s fuel and energy sector.
