On February 13, power outages triggered by Russian attacks on energy infrastructure were reported in six Ukrainian oblasts, namely Odesa, Mykolaiv, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv, and Donetsk. These deliberate strikes by Russian forces have had a direct impact on consumers, making the situation dire in these regions. As a result of the attacks, Ukraine’s state-owned electricity transmission operator, Ukrenergo, announced that emergency repair work has commenced where conditions allow.

Despite the ongoing challenges, there has been a slight decline in electricity consumption across the country. Reports indicated that as of the morning of February 13, electricity consumption was down 3.9% compared to the same time on Thursday, thanks in part to warmer weather in many areas. However, a spike in consumption was recorded on February 12, reflecting a 1.2% increase from Wednesday due to the easing of power supply restrictions in certain regions. This fluctuation illustrates the volatile dynamics of energy demand amid ongoing conflict.

Energy Minister Denys Shmyhal has urged all energy supply services to fast-track repair work in anticipation of a return of colder weather next week. The potential for severe frosts could further strain the energy infrastructure, necessitating urgent and effective repair efforts to restore power supply to affected oblasts and prepare for increased demand during harsh weather conditions.