As part of the COP29 discussions in Baku, the Europe-Ukraine Energy Transition Hub (EUETH) and the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine hosted the side event “Transnational Approaches to Energy Sector Reform in Ukraine.” Against the backdrop of Russia’s war of aggression and its severe impact on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, this discussion underscored the critical need for cooperation to rebuild and modernise the country’s energy sector.
The panel brought together leaders from Ukrainian ministries as well as experts and representatives from the private sector and international organisations to explore key strategies for sustainable energy development and EU integration. Topics covered ranged from short- and medium-term approaches to enhancing energy resilience to specific models for financing a sustainable transition.
Viktoriia Kyreieva, Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of Ukraine, opened the discussion by highlighting Ukraine’s resilience and vision: “Despite the unprecedented challenges posed by the war, Ukraine is determined to emerge with a modern, resilient, and sustainable energy system. International partnerships and investments in renewables are critical to achieving this goal and aligning with European standards.”
Dr Simon Schäfer-Stradowsky, representing EUETH, reinforced the importance of collaboration: “Ukraine’s energy transformation is pivotal not only for its recovery but for Europe’s collective energy security. Through a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, we can support Ukraine in building a future-ready energy sector that serves as a model for resilience and cooperation.”
Key topics included strategies for expanding biomethane production, which was identified as a vital component in diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels. The discussion also emphasised the need for decentralised energy systems and rooftop solar installations to build community-level resilience and provide a sustainable power supply, particularly for areas impacted by grid disruptions.
Another focal point was the development of effective financing models to attract both domestic and international investment. Experts outlined potential public-private partnerships, incentives for renewable energy developers, and regulatory reforms to create a stable environment conducive to sustainable investments. Discussions also addressed the challenges and benefits of scaling decentralised energy systems as a means to improve energy accessibility and security across the country.
The event demonstrated how Ukraine’s energy transition aligns with broader EU climate goals while securing energy autonomy. EUETH, supported by Breakthrough Energy, will continue to advance its mission to connect stakeholders, build capacity and support Ukraine’s integration into a shared European energy future.
