Electricity in Ukraine in 2022

In 2022, Ukraine's electricity consumption demonstrated a significant reliance on low-carbon sources. Low-carbon electricity, including nuclear, hydropower, solar, and wind, made up more than 80% of the total generation, with approximately 62 TWh coming from nuclear alone and about 18 TWh combined from hydropower, solar, and wind. Fossil fuels, including coal and gas, comprised the remaining portion, contributing close to 40 TWh. When compared to the global average electricity consumption of 432 watts per person, Ukraine generates significantly less electricity, which may lead to economic constraints and lower quality of life. Ensuring an adequate and clean electricity supply, therefore, remains a critical challenge for the country.

Suggestions

To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Ukraine can focus on expanding its existing nuclear power infrastructure, given its current significant contribution to the country's electricity mix. Learning from successful countries like the United States, China, and France, which have extensive nuclear generation capacities, Ukraine can scale up its nuclear output substantially. Furthermore, Ukraine can look to countries like Germany and Brazil, which have successfully ramped up wind energy production, and to China and the United States for advancements in solar technology. By investing in these proven technologies and following international best practices, Ukraine can increase its clean energy generation and reduce its dependence on polluting fossil fuels.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Ukraine shows fluctuating patterns, especially in nuclear energy production. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, nuclear generation saw both significant increases and declines, highlighted by a major dip in 1986 followed by substantial growth in subsequent years. The late 1990s and early 2000s experienced steady increases in nuclear output, with notable boosts in 1996, 2000, and 2004. However, the years between 2009 and 2022 were marked by periodic decreases, with the most significant drop occurring in 2022, where nuclear generation fell by more than 24 TWh. Hydropower also faced challenges, such as the reduction in 2014. These trends underscore the urgent need for stability and investment in Ukraine's low-carbon technologies to secure a sustainable electricity future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources