Will it come down to “public restrooms on the street”? An expert explains how to actually restore heat to Troyeshchyna
27 January 15:28
ЕКСКЛЮЗИВ
It is possible to restore heat supply during power outages by installing a sufficient number of stand-alone generators. Energy expert Gennady Ryabtsev discussed this in a comment to "Komersant Ukrainian".
According to him, this involves gasoline- or diesel-powered generators that can ensure the operation of heating facilities and water utilities.
“This will solve the problem—albeit temporarily, but it will solve it,” the expert noted.
Ryabtsev pointed out that the issue of autonomous power supply for critical infrastructure facilities has been discussed for years, yet in practice, many of them still lack their own power sources.
“One might, of course, ask why water utilities and critical infrastructure enterprises still do not have autonomous generators, even though this has been repeatedly stated. But the fact is that they do not,” he emphasized.
According to the expert, the only realistic solution is to purchase, install, and commission generators.
At the same time, Ryabtsev acknowledges that such a solution is expensive, but notes that Ukraine is receiving significant international aid, which can be directed toward reducing the financial burden.
“Yes, it’s an expensive undertaking. But we’re getting help, and this aid can be put to use,” he explained.
Regarding technical parameters, the expert noted that the capacity of the generators should start at 0.5 MW, and their exact number depends on specific needs and must be determined by individual calculations.
Commenting on concerns about potential health issues in the event of a prolonged lack of heat, Ryabtsev called such scenarios exaggerated.
“That’s nonsense. We shouldn’t let it come to that. The problem can be solved, but if we limit ourselves to just holding meetings, nothing will be achieved,” the expert concluded.
As a reminder, a critical situation regarding heat supply has arisen in the Troyeshchyna residential area of Kyiv following enemy shelling. According to Maksym Bakhmatov, head of the Desnianskyi District State Administration of Kyiv, there are currently no clear forecasts regarding the restoration of heat supply.
Bakhmatov also outlined a plan of action in case the sewer and water lines freeze due to prolonged cold weather.
“We will dig holes. What can be done in the short term when the situation is critical? Dig a hole, cover it, leave a hole on top—that’s it. We will set up toilets like in the countryside,” the head of the district administration warned.
