It was told by Viktor Bilko, Deputy Head of the State Energy Efficiency Agency (SAEE), outlining ways to increase the level of energy efficiency in heat supply systems, speaking at the "Heat Supply of Ukrainian Cities" forum on March 30, 2023.

"Today, the issue of energy efficiency in the heat supply system is gaining critical relevance. The energy supply of both consumers and the development of industry and the economy depend on its effective operation," noted Viktor Bilko, characterizing the state of the industry and stressing that the modernization of centralized heat supply systems requires a comprehensive approach.

SAEE also promotes reforms in the field of heat supply.

Thus, the Law of Ukraine "On Energy Efficiency", in the development of which the Agency also participated, laid the regulatory foundation for the introduction of efficient centralized heat supply and high-efficiency cogeneration in Ukraine.

"In addition, the SAEE has developed a law on high-efficiency cogeneration, which was adopted by the Parliament on February 24, 2023. The development of this direction will contribute to significant fuel savings, reduction of CO2 emissions, and most importantly - overcoming energy security challenges in the heat supply systems of Ukrainian cities," said V. Bilko.

According to the adopted law, the Agency plans to replace the current qualification mechanism of cogeneration plants with the qualification of high-efficiency cogeneration.

After the implementation of the law, the tax benefit in the form of an exemption from the excise duty (3.2%) for the sale of electricity will be extended only to high-efficiency cogeneration facilities.

The State Energy Efficiency Agency of Ukraine also developed a draft of the National Renewable Energy Action Plan until 2030. The plan proposes a target - 35% renewable energy in the heating and cooling sector by 2030.

In order to stimulate heat production from RES in heat supply systems, with the participation of the SAEE, a number of draft laws have been prepared in order to reduce the tax burden for bioenergy facilities and create a competitive market for solid biofuels in Ukraine.

A promising fuel for generating capacities is biomethane, which is similar to natural gas in terms of physical and chemical properties.

"A new heating season is ahead, for which we must prepare now. The Agency is open to cooperation and is ready to work together on new legislative changes, taking into account European experience in increasing energy efficiency in the heat supply system," concluded the Deputy Head of the State Energy Efficiency Agency.

The participants of the forum discussed in detail ways to modernize the centralized heat supply systems, and representatives of European energy agencies shared their experience in solving energy efficiency issues in this area.

For reference: The event was held with the informational support of the State Energy Efficiency Agency and the subcommittee on centralized water supply, drainage, heat production and heat supply of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Energy and Housing and Communal Services.

Communication and PR Department