Emergency power outage mode has been introduced in Kyiv, specifically on the left bank of the capital. The decision was made by order of Ukrenergo due to critical load on the power grid. System operators are urging citizens to use resources as sparingly as possible to prevent a total collapse of the network.
Heat is the main cause of overloads
The situation in the power system has worsened due to abnormally hot weather that has settled across the entire territory of Ukraine. According to Ukrenergo data, electricity consumption is showing a sharp increase. As of 09:30 on June 25, the load on the network exceeded the figures of the previous day (Wednesday) by 3.7%.
The main reason for the surge in demand is the active operation of household air conditioners. Residents, striving to cool their premises in the heat, are connecting powerful appliances, which creates a colossal load on transformer substations and power lines.
Expert warnings: power may be cut for up to 5 hours
Previously, representatives of Ukrenergo warned that the summer period could become a test for the power system. The head of the company, Vitaliy Zaychenko, voiced an alarming forecast: if prolonged heat coincides with shelling of energy infrastructure, outages could become prolonged.
In the worst-case scenario, according to Zaychenko, power may be absent for up to 5 hours a day. This is due to the need to balance the network while simultaneously reducing generation due to damage and a sharp spike in consumption.
Recommendations for consumers
At DTEK, which manages distribution networks, they appealed to the population to show understanding and save electricity. Experts emphasize that careful use of resources right now is not just a recommendation, but a way to maintain the operability of the power system as a whole.
Citizens are advised to turn off unused appliances and, if possible, reduce the intensity of climate equipment operation. Only joint efforts can smooth out peak loads and avoid more large-scale emergency outages.
