Ukraine’s energy system is facing serious challenges due to a sharp rise in electricity demand during the autumn-winter period. The main reason for this is the widespread use of air conditioners and electric heaters by residential consumers for heating homes, which has led to a 25% increase in electricity consumption compared to September.
This is reported by Finway
Main Reasons for Increased Consumption
The head of “Ukrenergo,” Vitaliy Zaychenko, emphasized that the increase in electricity consumption is primarily related to weather conditions. Throughout October, temperatures were lower than usual for this time of year, and there was also increased humidity. This prompted citizens to use electrical appliances for heating more actively.
According to Zaychenko, residential consumers have now become the largest electricity consumers in the country. He urged the public to change their electricity usage habits to support the stable operation of the energy system.
“Residential consumers, who are now the largest electricity consumers in Ukraine, need to change their behavior. It is important not to raise the indoor temperature to a comfortable 20-22 degrees, but to put on an extra sweater and help our energy system this way,” Zaychenko stated.
Load on the Energy System During Peak Hours
The situation remains particularly challenging during morning and evening peak consumption times – from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM. During these periods, the load on Ukraine’s energy system is at its highest, increasing the risks of electricity shortages.
Zaychenko noted that the launch of centralized heating will somewhat improve the situation; however, with the drop in temperatures, a significant decrease in electricity consumption is not expected – demand will remain high or even increase.