Schedules are not working: emergency power cuts have been introduced in several regions of Ukraine
19 January 08:31
On the morning of January 19, emergency power cuts were introduced in a number of regions of Ukraine. The reason was a difficult situation in the power system caused by Russian shelling of energy infrastructure amid severe frosts. This was reported by the press service of Ukrenergo, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
Why the power cut schedules are not working
Ukrenergo emphasized that the previously published hourly outage schedules in regions where emergency restrictions have been introduced are temporarily not in effect.
Energy companies are working hard to stabilize the power supply as quickly as possible and return the networks to their normal operating mode.
Emergency blackouts are used when the balance of the power system is disrupted to such an extent that planned restrictions cannot prevent overloads or accidents.
When will emergency blackouts be lifted?
Ukrenergo notes that emergency blackouts will be lifted after the situation in the power system stabilizes.
At the same time, energy experts warn that the situation can change very quickly.
Ukrainians are urged to
- to follow the announcements of the regional power companies in their area;
- consume electricity sparingly, if available, especially during peak hours.
There may be no electricity for more than 16 hours a day
Serhiy Kovalenko, CEO of the energy company YASNO, announced the possible tightening of restrictions.
According to him, due to a combination of heavy shelling and severe frosts, Ukraine is effectively transitioning to a new reality of energy consumption:
“The situation in the energy system has changed. Whereas previously more than four stages meant unscheduled emergency blackouts, now the country is starting to live with 4.5-5 stages.”
This means that:
- power outages may exceed 16 hours per day;
- previous formulas such as 7 hours without power/3.5 hours with power are no longer relevant.
Are there any chances for improvement?
According to Kovalenko, no rapid improvement in the situation is currently expected. The main hope is for:
- a decrease in consumption after the weather warms up;
- the absence of new large-scale attacks on the energy sector.
“The key factor is the shelling of the energy sector, which is impossible to predict,” he concluded.
What this means for consumers
Schedules may not work or may change without warning.
Emergency shutdowns are used to maintain the integrity of the power system.
Rational consumption by each subscriber really helps to reduce the duration of restrictions.
Energy companies are calling on Ukrainians to be understanding of the situation and prepare for a long period of severe restrictions, at least until the weather and security situation stabilizes.
