How the Renewable Energy Market Is Emerging from the Debt Crisis and Preparing for a New Phase of Growth

Ukraine’s renewable energy sector is gradually overcoming the consequences of the debt crisis that has persisted since 2020 and is entering a phase of recovery. Andriy Konechenkov, Chairman of the Board of the Ukrainian Wind Energy Association (UWEA), spoke about the current state of the industry, political developments, and investment prospects during a broadcast on “Pryamyi” TV channel.

Debt Crisis: The Path Toward Stabilization

According to the expert, debt in the renewable energy market remains, but the situation is gradually stabilizing.

“As of today, the Guaranteed Buyer owes about ₴1 billion to wind power producers and around ₴21 billion to solar generators. The wind sector is in a better position since most stations already operate under market conditions,” noted Andriy Konechenkov.

The debt issue has two main causes: the “non-synchronous operation” of certain producers during the occupation of some territories in 2022 (around 4% of unaccounted-for electricity) and market imbalances. Solving these problems requires legislative changes currently being developed by the Ministry of Energy and the Energy Community.

Thanks to the adoption of a deficit-free transmission tariff by Ukrenergo in 2024, the level of payments to producers has increased to 98% or higher. No new debts have been accumulating in 2025.

Wind Energy Demonstrates Growth

Despite the war, wind power remains one of the most dynamic sectors of renewable energy.

“The year 2025 will be significant: we expect 200–250 MW of new capacity to be commissioned — more than during the entire period of the full-scale war,” emphasized the UWEA Chairman.

Currently, seven wind farms with a total capacity of around 700 MW are under construction, and an additional 4 GW are in the preparation phase. Wind projects have proven their resilience, economic efficiency, and investment attractiveness.

Wind — Holding the Line of Energy Defense

As Andriy Konechenkov stressed, wind energy is not only an economic resource but also a strategic asset during wartime.

“Wind farms are resistant to shelling and can quickly restore generation. They are decentralized, affordable, and safe energy sources that literally help Ukrainians survive in crisis conditions,” he noted.

This feature makes wind energy one of the cornerstones of Ukraine’s energy security, as such facilities can be located closer to consumers, reducing the risks of damage to critical infrastructure.

Legislative Changes Driving Growth

Recent months have brought a series of decisions improving the investment environment:

• Capacity reservation in the grid has been introduced for renewable energy producers;

• A cable pooling law was adopted, enabling solar and wind plants to share grid infrastructure;

• The cash-based taxation method has been extended until 2028.

Further developments are expected, including laws on VAT exemption for imported wind equipment, a shift from CfD to Feed-in Premium models, and the launch of a market for guarantees of origin for green electricity.

Social Dimension — Building Trust with Communities

Konechenkov emphasized that the success of any project begins with open dialogue with local communities:

“We must conduct broad information campaigns — explaining the advantages, impact, and benefits such projects bring to local economies. Trust and partnership are key foundations.”

Ukrainian wind energy has proven capable of developing even under the most challenging conditions. Resilience, legislative support, and community engagement are laying the foundation for a new stage of growth and the restoration of the country’s energy independence.

For Global 100% RE Ukraine, the progress of wind energy exemplifies how renewables are becoming a pillar of national resilience. Today, wind is not only a clean energy source but also an instrument of energy security — one that helps Ukraine stay powered, even in its darkest hours.