First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Denys Shmyhal held an operational meeting aimed at ensuring thermal power plants have sufficient coal for stable operation during the autumn-winter period. The discussion included the head of the State Property Fund Dmytro Natalukha, representatives of PJSC “Centrenergo”, State Enterprise “Ukrvuhillia”, as well as leaders of state coal mining enterprises.
This is reported by Finway
Resource and logistics planning for energy resilience
The meeting participants addressed critical issues regarding the formation of the fuel balance for the upcoming period, logistics of coal supply, and the creation of reserves. In particular, it was emphasized that for the full operation of the thermal power plants, Centrenergo’s monthly coal requirement could reach between 250 to 400 thousand tons. Denys Shmyhal stressed the need for clear planning and coordination among all state structures in the energy sector to ensure uninterrupted operation of power plants during winter load.
“Centrenergo’s need, in case the thermal power plants operate at full capacity, will be between 250 to 400 thousand tons of coal per month. Therefore, we must clearly plan the resource balance, logistics, form reserves, and establish long-term interaction among all participants in the public sector,” Shmyhal noted.
Priority for state coal and support for miners
Shmyhal emphasized that state energy-generating companies should primarily use coal produced in Ukraine. This approach is intended not only to guarantee the country’s energy security but also to support national producers and preserve over 8,000 jobs in the mining sector. According to the minister, economic feasibility and market mechanisms should remain the foundation of such cooperation.
Additionally, Denys Shmyhal instructed to develop options for interaction that would ensure the continuous implementation of coal mined by state mines and enhance the resilience of the energy system during periods of increased loads. Earlier, the minister had already met with coal industry unions to discuss current issues and prospects for the development of this strategic sector.