The autumn and winter of 2025-2026 presented the most severe challenges to Ukraine's energy infrastructure since the full-scale war began. Yet, the dedication of the specialists at our energy company DTEK ensured that the nation's energy system remained stable.
This extraordinary commitment was recently recognised at the highest levels of government and culture. Minister of Energy of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal conducted a working visit to a DTEK thermal power plant to personally thank the staff. He noted that the heating season was a severe test for the entire country, but thanks to the rapid response and ability to operate under constant danger, the system held. During his visit, he presented state and departmental awards to 36 DTEK employees from various facilities across the country.
The human element of this endurance was highlighted by a special performance from legendary Ukrainian musician Sviatoslav Vakarchuk. He visited a DTEK power plant that has suffered immense damage from strikes by russia to play for the staff. Acknowledging the devastation around him, he observed how painful it was to perform in such conditions and stated clearly that energy workers are true heroes.
The scale of the destruction they face is difficult to overstate. The plant Sviatoslav visited has endured 20 missile and drone attacks since 2022. Up to 90% of its generation capacity was either destroyed or damaged, with a significant portion of these attacks taking place during the recent heating season. The cold weather and continuous bombardment were designed to leave millions without basic utilities, but our specialists prevented this.
SCM and its founder, Rinat Akhmetov, remain fully committed to supporting these recovery efforts, alongside the broader humanitarian initiatives which provide essential aid and supports.
Restoration work is ongoing and systemic. Between January and March 2026 alone, DTEK allocated UAH 4.2 billion ($96.6 million) to repair damaged infrastructure and maintain the operation of thermal power plants and mines. DTEK Energy CEO Oleksandr Fomenko emphasised that preparations for the summer peak demand and the next heating season are already underway.
The dedication of these 36 awardees reflects the spirit of the entire workforce. Their systemic and coherent work, as recognised by the government, secures the basic living conditions of millions. The winter was the hardest of their lives, but Ukraine's energy system held.
