Latvenergo AS provides support for the restoration of the Ukrainian energy system

On 30 December 2022, a three-phase 110 kV transformer donated by Latvenergo was successfully received in Ukraine and will be used to restore the Ukrainian power system after the Russian military attacks. Latvenergo AS successfully cooperated with the State Fire and Rescue Service and international institutions – the Energy Community Secretariat and the European Union Emergency Response Coordination Centre – to ensure the delivery of the transformer to Ukraine.

In response to Ukraine's request, Latvenergo's governing institution took a decision in record time to donate a three-phase 110 kV transformer for the restoration of the Ukrainian energy system, and in late November Latvenergo signed a donation agreement with an energy company indicated by the Ukrainian government. The 54-tonne equipment is Latvenergo's back-up transformer that has been refurbished and maintained in excellent working order and is therefore still usable in the power system.

In response to a request from Latvenergo and the State Fire and Rescue Service, the delivery of the equipment to Ukraine was coordinated by the Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) of the European Union in cooperation with the Energy Community Secretariat as well as the Polish Strategic Reserve Agency (RARS). The transportation of the transformer was financed by the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.

Chief Administrative Officer of Latvenergo Arnis Kurgs, said: "Following the targeted and barbaric attacks by Russian troops on the Ukrainian power system to intimidate the Ukrainian people and stop their resistance, Latvenergo took immediate action to respond to Ukraine's request by donating an urgently needed 110 kV transformer to restore power supply to the Ukrainian energy system, showing solidarity with the Ukrainian people and supporting Ukraine's victory. The donation to Ukraine was made at an extremely fast pace. This was possible thanks to the very active, selfless actions and coordinated cooperation of Latvenergo employees, as well as Latvian and international partners. Therefore, we would like to say a big thank you to all the contributors and supporters! Glory to Ukraine and its heroes!"

European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič, said: “Millions of Ukrainians are at risk due to Russia’s continued attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The European Union and its Member States are doing all it can to help sustain the electricity supply in Ukraine. I thank Latvia for sending a powerful transformer to help Ukraine in their moment of need. The EU Civil Protection Mechanism is coordinating its largest operation to deliver much needed supplies, such as energy and shelter supplies, to Ukraine.”

Director of the Energy Community Secretariat, Artur Lorkowski, underlined: “Thanks to the generosity of Latvenergo, the 110kV transformer will make a real difference to the stability of the electricity grid and tens of thousands of Ukrainian families lacking electricity supply in the midst of winter. From day one of the war, the Secretariat has been active in supporting Ukraine in keeping its energy infrastructure functional. We assist donors of emergency energy equipment and tools in every step of the way and, together with our partners, make sure that all donations reach Ukraine as quickly as possible.”