Ukraine is preparing for what could be the most difficult heating season in its 31 years of independence. At the same time, Prime Minister Denys Shmihal hastened to assure that gas tariffs would not be changed.
The day before, he spoke about both the cost of blue fuel for Ukrainians and the preparation of our state for heating season. We tell you what to expect this winter.
Issues of the heating season are a priority
As Denis Shmigal noted, the issue of both the energy sector and preparation the heating season is a priority for the Ukrainian government.
As of the end of August, we managed to accumulate 2 million tons of coal in warehouses. This is almost three times more than on the corresponding date last year. Ukrainian mines work 24/7. We are forming all possible reserves,” he stressed.
As for gas, it is also being accumulated as actively as possible. At the end of August, our underground storage facilities already contain 13 billion cubic meters of “blue fuel”.As for last month, more than 1 billion cubic meters of gas were pumped during this period.
Denis Shmigal noted that active negotiations are now with international partners. Everyone is doing this in order to so that our state has more financial opportunities to create gas reserves for the winter.Thus, the Government of Norway has already planned to allocate at least 200 million euros to our state. The Prime Minister noted that our state is negotiating not only financial support, but also the transfer of the “blue fuel” itself.
What will be the gas tariffs
The Prime Minister noted that for the population, gas tariffs will not change. From August 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023, the cost of both gas for heating and hot water supply remains unchanged. As for gas, one cubic meter will cost 7 hryvnia and 42 kopecks.
This will allow us to ensure a stable supply of heat to the homes of our citizens in winter, – Shmihal emphasized.
Recall that Naftogaz warned that Ukrainians will experience a very cold winter this year. Therefore, citizens of our country are advised to stock up on both warm clothes and blankets. This was stated by the head of the company, Yuriy Vitrenko.
He stressed that the temperature in the houses will fluctuate between 17 – 18 degrees. And this is almost 4 degrees below the norm. At the same time, this option will provide all the homes of Ukrainians with warmth in the cold season.
