This collaboration aims to ensure backup power for essential services, particularly hospitals, amidst ongoing energy crises caused by the conflict.
RePower Ukraine, a charitable foundation formed by Ukraine’s largest solar energy companies in response to the 2022 invasion, has already made significant progress in delivering renewable energy.
One of its recent projects included installing a 24-kilowatt rooftop solar system and a 28.8 kilowatt-hour battery storage system for a district hospital near Kyiv, ensuring a reliable power supply for the hospital’s intensive care unit.
Addressing critical energy needs
Ukrainian hospitals have faced severe challenges, with some medics forced to perform surgeries using torches due to power outages. RePower Ukraine’s long-term goal is to secure the nation’s energy independence through a transition to renewable energy, moving away from reliance on Russian natural gas and oil.
Solar Energy UK members, including major distributors like Segen, Midsummer, and Waxman, have contributed to this mission by donating crucial equipment, such as battery storage systems and solar power banks, to Ukrainian hospitals.
However, more support is still needed, and the foundation continues to seek donations of money and renewable energy equipment.
A memorandum of cooperation
At the Solar & Storage Live event in Birmingham, Solar Energy UK and RePower Ukraine signed a memorandum of cooperation.
This agreement commits both organisations to work together on photovoltaic and battery storage projects for hospitals, schools, and other institutions in Ukraine. Solar Energy UK will also help with fundraising, promote RePower’s visibility, and provide communication support.
Chris Hewett, chief executive of Solar Energy UK, said, “This agreement with RePower Ukraine is not just about responding to the catastrophic impact of the war on Ukraine’s most vulnerable people.
“It is also about recognising how Putin’s invasion led to the energy price crisis, further underlining the need for rapid decarbonisation. I call on more of our members to help RePower Ukraine, with both kit and cash.”
A lasting impact
Nick Arnold, international ambassador of the RePower Ukraine Charitable Foundation, expressed gratitude for the support from Solar Energy UK members, stating: “SEUK has been helping RePower behind the scene for the last 12 months and hopefully this helps raise awareness of the charity even further.”
Artem Semenyshyn, board member of RePower Ukraine, highlighted the importance of the partnership: “We are excited to set up a framework for long-lasting fruitful collaboration with SEUK on the further development of PV and energy storage projects for Ukrainian hospitals.”
Personal connections
Masha Matakova, Solar Energy UK’s membership and business development adviser, shared her personal connection to the cause: “Supporting Ukraine’s solar energy efforts means the world to me, especially as someone from Kharkiv.
“My family and friends are often left without lights, heat, or power for long stretches of time, making everyday life incredibly difficult.”
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