Ukraine's Power Struggle: How Attacks on Substations Could Plunge the Country into Darkness

As winter tightens its grip, Russia's relentless attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure have left the country's power supply hanging by a thread.

The Backbone of Ukraine's Energy

• Nuclear Power: The backbone of Ukraine's energy system.
• Operational Plants: Three operational nuclear power plants.
• Total Capacity: 7.7 gigawatts.
• Zaporizhzhia Plant: Largest plant under Russian control, not producing power.

The Power Deficit

• Thermal Power Generation: Heavily damaged by Russian airstrikes.
• Reliance on Nuclear: Now accounts for up to 80% of power consumed.
• Risk of Collapse: Cities' infrastructure could collapse without nuclear power.

The Unsung Heroes: Substations

• Key Substations: Ten key substations transport more than half of Ukraine's electricity.
• Strategic Locations: Some near nuclear plants, others hundreds of kilometers away.
• Russian Attacks: At least 60 attacks since the war began.
• Catastrophic Risk: Direct hit on a substation near a reactor could be disastrous.

The Chornobyl Disaster

• 1986 Explosion: Rendered vast areas uninhabitable.
• Chilling Reminder: The dangers of attacking nuclear infrastructure.

The Extent of the Damage

• Economy Minister's Revelation: 8.5 gigawatts of generating capacity damaged since October 2025.
• Includes: Thermal and hydroelectric power plants.

Hope Amidst the Crisis

• Protective Measures: Put in place to mitigate risks.
• Quick Repairs: Can be made relatively quickly.
• Constant Threat: Attacks on substations near reactors remain a significant risk.

The world watches and waits, hoping that Ukraine can weather this storm and emerge stronger on the other side.