This is stated in a joint release based on the results of the 8th meeting of the Ukraine-EU Association Council, which took place on September 5, 2022 in Brussels.

Ukraine is actively working on the implementation of the Association Agreement, and the priority of the Government's work is the continuation of gradual integration into the EU market, including the energy market. Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal emphasized this during a press conference.

Also, EU High Representative Josep Borrell and EU Commissioner for Neighborhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi noted Ukraine's important progress in the implementation of reforms, which took place despite russia's full-scale war against Ukraine.

In particular, the Council of the Association welcomed the successful synchronization of the Ukrainian power grid with the continental European grid. The parties marked the beginning of the commercial exchange of electricity between Ukraine and the EU.

The parties emphasized the need to reduce dependence on Russian fossil and nuclear fuels.

The Association Council drew attention to the importance of achieving a green transition of Ukraine within the framework of reconstruction efforts.

Both sides welcomed the development of a strategic partnership between Ukraine and the EU regarding renewable gases, according to a joint press release.

It should be noted that Ukraine has made significant progress in the implementation of EU directives in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy.

Among the key decisions is the adoption of the Law of Ukraine "On Energy Efficiency". The law is the basis for further implementation of European approaches to energy efficiency policy and relevant tools: energy audit, energy management, national energy efficiency monitoring system, energy service, energy labeling and eco-design of energy-consuming products, highly efficient cogeneration, etc.

Ukraine undertook the obligation to implement the fourth energy package "Clean energy for Europeans", in particular, the implementation of the EU Directive 2018/2001 (RED II). So the draft National Renewable Energy Action Plan until 2030 has been developed. It sets an ambitious goal of 27% of energy from renewable sources in final energy consumption in 2030.

Also in accordance with the European energy policy which is being transformed in the light of the global energy crisis and constant russian energy blackmail, Ukraine is developing production and use of renewable gases - hydrogen and biomethane.

Decisive steps taken by Ukraine in the mentioned directions are a significant component of the joint path with the EU to sustainable development and energy independence.

"We are determined to build a strong, prosperous Ukraine as part of the European family," said Josep Borrell.

Communication and PR Department