Vladyslav Sokolovskyi, Chairman of the Solar Energy Association of Ukraine (SEAU), outlined the key challenges and prospects for the development of renewable energy in Ukraine during a live broadcast on the TV channel Pryamyi.
Main topics of the broadcast:
Debts in the electricity market. Ukrenergo’s debt to the state-owned Guaranteed Buyer exceeds UAH 15 billion.
“The situation is difficult; it originated before the war and worsened in 2022–2023. The problem can be solved with the support of Western partners and the adoption of a law that sets a clear repayment schedule,” explained Sokolovskyi.
Market mechanisms and investments. The removal of certain price caps during evening hours has become a signal for investors and a step toward integration with the European market.
“This is a very important market signal: we are moving toward full integration with the EU energy system – market coupling. A draft law on this is already in Parliament. After integration, there will be practically no price caps in the market. In addition, introducing a price cap of UAH 15,000 per 1,000 kWh encourages the construction of new capacities and the development of energy storage systems,” he noted.
CBAM and European integration. The introduction of the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism requires urgent action from Ukraine.
“The government has already started negotiations on postponing the implementation of this financial instrument for Ukrainian exporters. This is an urgent but tactical measure. Strategically, we must create a transparent domestic carbon market,” stressed Sokolovskyi.
War-related risks. Solar energy has been severely affected by the war: some solar power plants have been destroyed, others are located in occupied territories or were relocated.
“A large number of plants have been attacked or remain in occupied areas. Nevertheless, the sector retains its potential and continues to develop even during the war,” he said.
Global trends. Despite changes in U.S. policy, renewable energy continues to grow worldwide.
“According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), in 2025 at least 64 GW of new capacity will be built in the United States, almost half of which will be solar. This proves that the green transition can no longer be stopped,” the SEAU Chairman explained.
“The main task now is to restore trust between the state and business. Debt repayment and stable economic policy will be key signals for investors that renewable energy in Ukraine is worth investing in,” emphasized Vladyslav Sokolovskyi.