Energy Security Under Threat: 'Ukrenergo' on the Verge of Losing European Certification.

Ukraine risks losing the certification of 'Ukrenergo', which threatens the country's energy security. This opinion was expressed by energy expert Oleksandr Kharchenko. His statement concerns an official letter from the Energy Community Secretariat warning of a possible loss of certification.

The problem lies in unsatisfactory corporate governance of 'Ukrenergo'. Two independent members of the company's Supervisory Board resigned, citing political pressure. This caused an imbalance in the Supervisory Board, where independent members should prevail.

According to Kharchenko, the Energy Community Secretariat is outraged by the excessive power of the Ministry of Energy over state-owned energy companies. This contradicts European rules. Furthermore, the company's charter requires changes to ensure the independence of 'Ukrenergo'. Also, a separate unit for coordinating operators in the fuel and energy complex has not been created.

If the certification is lost, it will be difficult for Ukraine to import electricity from Europe, which is especially problematic in winter. Additionally, the electricity market of Ukraine will suffer, and the Ukrainian power grid may lose synchronization with the European grid.

Kharchenko emphasized that for cooperation with the European energy system, 'Ukrenergo' needs to be certified. Otherwise, the duration and frequency of power outages will increase.

If the certification is lost, then 'Ukrenergo' will no longer be able to participate in ENTSO-E. This will significantly impact Ukraine's energy system and lead to the lack of electricity imports and the inability to balance the power system with Europe.