| Spotlight
Kanivska PSPP. The development of Ukraine’s fuel and energy complex is now a priority, making this collaboration critical to the nation’s recovery. Canadian partnership: Ukraine’s collaboration with Aecon Construction Global Services Inc. signifies the nation’s readiness to welcome international expertise and resources in the construction of hydropower plants. This partnership was solidified with the presence of the President of Ukraine and the Prime Minister of Canada, underlining the commitment of both countries to rebuilding Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Ukraine has also renewed its collaboration with the Canadian state-owned company Hydro-Québec, which has been a crucial player in Quebec’s energy landscape. The aim is to develop technical equipment for Ukrainian hydropower plants and further modernize the country’s energy infrastructure. South Korean support: The meeting between Ukrhydroenergo and the Korean Water Resources Corporation (K-water) shows that support for Ukraine’s energy sector is not limited to Western nations. K-water expressed its readiness to share expertise and technology with Ukraine, particularly for the reconstruction of the Kakhovska HPP. This international collaboration aims to enhance Ukraine’s energy resilience. GE Vernova collaboration: Ukrhydroenergo’s Memorandum of Collaboration with GE Vernova’s Hydro Power business highlights the importance of Ukrainian partnerships with renowned international companies. This cooperation focuses on the restoration of Ukrainian hydropower facilities, particularly Kakhovka.
Challenges and resilience The period from October 2022 to October 2023
witnessed Ukrhydroenergo’s unwavering commitment to its mission, even amidst hostile conditions. The company faced substantial losses exceeding $1.5 billion, but its efforts to provide clean energy, protect communities from floods and droughts, operate and repair facilities, and prepare for the future remain undeterred. Despite the destruction of the Kakhovka
hydropower, Ukrhydroenergo said it has stood resilient, actively preparing for the restoration of this critical facility.
In addition to it’s focus on restoration, Ukrhydroenergo is actively seeking funding from international financial institutions and private sources. Collaboration with Canadian companies and European leaders is crucial to securing the financial support necessary to rebuild Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
It’s worth noting that Ukrhydroenergo is currently actively working in two directions: the restoration and construction of a new generation of energy facilities. The company is currently completing the construction of units 5-7 at the Dnistrovska pumped storage power plant , upgrading station equipment, and preparing for the autumn-winter period. Work on the construction projects of the Kaniv PSPP and Kakhovska HPP is also underway.
Above: A panorama of the central section of the Kakhovka Dam, with the reservoir beyond it, taken in 2015. The dam was destroyed in an attack in June 2023 Image by Artemka. Licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license
Summary of the Kakhovka Dam Incident
In June 2023, the Nova Kakhovka Dam in Ukraine, a 3.2km long, 30m high dam that impounded 20km³ of water, was deliberately breached. The dam was situated in the Russian-controlled southern part of Ukraine and had been in operation since 1956. Ukraine accused Russia of destroying the dam, while Russia suggested Ukraine was responsible. The dam failure led to a catastrophic release of water, causing severe
environmental and humanitarian consequences. The dam was considered a lifeline for the region, supplying water to over 700,000 people and irrigating more than 500,000 hectares of cropland. The destruction of the dam had global food security implications, as Ukraine was a major exporter of agricultural products. The incident also resulted in significant environmental damage. The floodwater
washed away topsoil, disrupted ecosystems, and posed a threat to various species of animals and birds. Over 150 tonnes of machine oil from the dam spilled into the Dnieper River, along with other pollutants, raising concerns about drinking water contamination. The incident prompted international organizations like the International
Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD) and the International Hydropower Association (IHA) to express their concern and offer assistance. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) announced its support for the restoration and modernization of Ukrhydroenergo’s hydroelectric power plants, including the Kakhovka plant. The primary goal was to address operational challenges caused by the impact of the Russian invasion. The dam breach highlighted the importance of dam safety, as it had far-reaching implications for the environment, agriculture, and regional stability. ICOLD offered its support and assistance to Ukraine in addressing dam safety concerns.
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