Debates on the Future: Energy of the Future

“Ukrainian energy specialists stand apart from the rest of the world because they have mastered the art of recovery under any circumstances.” – Olha Babii

The Ukrainian Institute for the Future has launched a new series of discussions, “Debates on the Future.” The first session focused on one of today’s most pressing topics—energy. Russia aims to destroy Ukraine’s energy system and force compromises on conflict resolution, but Ukraine is prepared for any scenario.

Leading industry experts gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Ukraine’s energy sector.

Speakers included:

• Olha Babii – Energy resource management expert and member of the National Commission for State Regulation of Energy and Utilities (NKREKP), specializing in energy sector regulation and development.
• Stanislav Ihnatiev – Energy market analyst, a consultant on energy security and resilience, known for forecasting energy system developments.
• Artem Nekrasov – Representative of Guaranteed Buyer (GarPok), specializing in electricity market development and state support for renewable energy.
• Andrian Prokip – Energy expert and researcher in energy markets and sustainable development, focusing on energy strategy analysis and transition to clean energy sources.
• Viktor Kurtev – Investment and finance expert specializing in energy projects, with experience in capital investment strategies for energy innovations.
• Anatolii Amelin – Moderator, co-founder, and executive director of the Ukrainian Institute for the Future (UIF), economic development and investment expert.

Key Discussion Points:

1. How prepared are we for winter?
   This question concerns every Ukrainian citizen and business. Experts provided an analysis of Ukraine’s energy system readiness ahead of the heating season.

Ukraine entered the winter with:

• Gas reserves in storage, primarily from domestic production.
• Prepared thermal power facilities to sustain heating operations.
• Cogeneration plants are built at record speed—within just six months, whereas similar European projects take at least two years.
• Numerous ongoing projects are set to be operational by December.
• Businesses adapt and invest in their own energy generation.

Conclusion: Ukraine is prepared for winter.

2. What should Ukraine’s energy system look like after the war?
   This part of the discussion explored future energy transformation strategies.

It is clear that the pre-war energy model is no longer viable. As the war ends, economic activity will resume, more people will return, and electricity demand will rise in both residential and business sectors.

Experts debated key questions:

• What should Ukraine’s energy system look like over the next 10–15 years?
• How can we rebuild the energy infrastructure with a focus on sustainable development?
• What strategies are necessary for developing renewable energy and integrating modern technologies?

During the debate, experts addressed a wide range of pressing issues. The full recording of the discussion is available online.

Key Takeaways:
Ukraine is demonstrating to the world an unprecedented ability to restore and adapt its energy system in wartime conditions. Despite significant challenges, the country is not just holding the line but laying the foundation for energy independence and sustainable development.

This first session served as a launchpad for dialogue between experts, businesses, and society on Ukraine’s energy future.

We express our gratitude to everyone who participated in this important discussion. The next debate topic will be announced soon.