U.S. to send another tranche of aid to restore Ukraine's energy sector

MOSCOW. Feb 28 (Interfax) - The United States will provide the third tranche of equipment in March to help restore power infrastructure in Ukraine, Ukrainian media said, citing remarks made by U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm in an interview with Voice of America.

Without disclosing the amount of the upcoming assistance, Granholm, at the same time, confirmed that the U.S. supports Ukraine's intentions to build a new model of the energy system the core of which will be clean energy and decentralization. As a result, it will help achieve a key goal, i.e. Ukraine's energy independence.

The U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, which has been developing roadmaps for countries that have expressed interest in going 100% renewable, stands ready to work with Ukraine, she said.

Granholm said that she has been keeping in touch with Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko and senses Ukraine's desire to work together and to put its plans into practice.

As reported, the United States Agency for International Development in late January 2023 announced an assistance package of $125 million to support Ukraine's energy sector. This money will be used to procure vital equipment including additional gas turbines, high voltage autotransformers, distribution substation repair equipment, and backup power for Kiev's water and electricity supply services.

USAID administrator Samantha Power said during a visit to Ukraine that in October 2022 the U.S. had adopted a decision to provide $55 million in emergency assistance to invest in Ukraine's heating infrastructure as part of efforts to help the country prepare for the winter.