There’s no power, but there is export: an expert explains why Odessa experiences outages

A working generator near a building. Illustrative photo: News.LIVE

While outages continue in Odesa, Ukraine continues to export electricity abroad. According to an expert, the generated current is sufficient, but it is not possible to supply the city with electricity in full. The reason is tied to the consequences of Russian attacks on the energy system, and reconstruction is hindered by the threat of new strikes.

This was reported by News.LIVE with reference to an interview with Oleksandr Kharchenko, director of the Center for Energy Research, for Ukrinform.

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Electricity is being exported

According to Oleksandr Kharchenko, Ukraine currently does not have a general generation deficit. The problem is that Russians damaged high-voltage networks that transmit power between regions. Because of this, even available electricity cannot always be delivered where it is needed.

“Generation is not in deficit right now. And this is shown, among other things, by the fact that we are still forced to export electricity, because, unfortunately, due to damage to the high-voltage networks we cannot deliver it to consumers, say, in Kyiv to a sufficient extent, in Odesa, and in some other regions,” explained Oleksandr Kharchenko.

Why repairs are taking longer

Oleksandr Kharchenko said energy workers have prepared repair crews and have spare equipment. In addition, protection of substations helps guard their most important elements. However, the Russians continue to attack energy facilities, and drones do not allow repair crews to work safely.

“There are damages that could be eliminated in literally hours, but, unfortunately, because of constant repeated attacks, it is impossible to work steadily and normally at the facilities,” noted Oleksandr Kharchenko.

According to him, some repairs can be completed within 4–8 hours. This requires replacing damaged insulators, switches, relays and other equipment components. But while Russian drones hover above facilities, it is dangerous to send people there.

Power schedules in Odesa

Problems with power transmission and the consequences of Russian strikes continue to affect Odesa’s electricity supply. By decision of Ukrenergo, 8 November there are stable power outages in the city and region. In total across Ukraine, daily schedules of hourly outages with a volume of from 1,5 to 4 per shift are used, and for industry — power restrictions. You can check your schedule for your address on the DTEK Odesa Electric Networks website. If Ukrenergo issues new directives, schedules may change.

News.LIVE reported that 2 November Russians attacked Odessa and the region. They damaged a DTEK energy facility, two residential buildings, a garage and other structures. Five people were injured. Two of the five injured women were hospitalized.

Earlier News.LIVE reported that in the morning of 3 November, explosions sounded in Odesa. A drone strike damaged six passenger cars and a truck. There were no reports of injuries.