Kyiv Oblast may be left without heating and water due to delays in energy system protection

Threat to the capital's vital systems

Kyiv Oblast faces the risk of serious problems with electricity, water, heating, and sewage operations this winter. The main cause is the potential unpreparedness of energy infrastructure protection ahead of the onset of frosts. This was stated by Ruslan Oliinyk, Deputy Minister for Recovery, Infrastructure and Transport.

According to the official, a lack of funding and constant shelling by Russia are causing delays in the reinforcement of facilities. If protection is not completed on time, new attacks could cause prolonged power outages. The consequences of such blackouts could be critical: there is a threat of the Kyiv metro system ceasing to operate.

Two-tier protection for substations

Ukraine continues to implement additional safety measures for energy facilities. A second level of protection is planned for 110 kV substations. A key element of this solution will be a special concrete shelter. Its main purpose is to reduce the likelihood of equipment damage resulting from strikes by Russian aerial targets.

After the construction of concrete shelters is completed, plans are to move to the next stage. The creation of a pre-detonation screen is envisaged. This structure is designed to intercept the enemy target before it reaches the main shelter, which will allow minimising the destructive consequences of a possible explosion and additionally protecting the equipment.

Conditions for timely completion of works

Ruslan Oliinyk emphasised that the deadlines for installing protection depend on several critical factors. He noted:

«За умови стабільного фінансування, належного постачання матеріалів і відсутності критичних перешкод підрядники зможуть облаштувати захист ключових об’єктів у заплановані терміни, зокрема до настання зими» (Provided there is stable funding, proper supply of materials, and no critical obstacles, contractors will be able to install protection for key facilities within the planned deadlines, specifically before the onset of winter).

Thus, success depends on stable funding, timely delivery of building materials, and the absence of critical obstacles.