Ukraine could enter Europe's top three cleanest power systems by 2030-2032, fully phasing out coal generation in favor of nuclear, hydro and gas power, bolstered by renewables.
Decentralizing the energy sector is a multi-year project already underway, according to the expert. Major initiatives are slated for 2030, with smaller ones by 2028-2029. New plants will be closer to cities, more efficient and better protected than old generation facilities.
"Energy isn't something you can whip up in six months," Kharchenko added. "It always involves big investments, complex technical work and dozens of tasks."
He predicts that by 2030, Ukraine's power system will mix nuclear, hydro and gas-fired generation. Coal plants will operate partially and gradually retire. This will be augmented by robust wind and solar output with battery complexes for optimal use of new capacity.
"Ukraine will set an example in both energy decentralization and decarbonization," Kharchenko concluded. "If we currently rank 9th to 11th in Europe for grid cleanliness, with proper effort after 2030-2032, we could crack the top five, or even the top three."
At the same time, the expert noted that securing new facilities complicates projects, as each requires serious engineering solutions for protection.