One million residents, 230 thousand IDPs and energy decentralization: how Zaporizhzhia region is living

Oleksandr Kovalenko, a representative of the Zaporizhzhia Regional Military Administration, told Ukrainian Radio how the region prepared for winter and what assistance the authorities are giving to local businesses so they can continue operating.

According to him, about 1 million people currently live in the territory of Zaporizhzhia region under Ukraine’s control, of whom 230 thousand have the status of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Volunteers help the people who remained here with food, medicine, and basic necessities.

Kovalenko reported that, despite the unstable security situation, there is no observed outflow of business from the region. The authorities support relocated businesses through various grant programs. In addition, in 2026 the Zaporizhzhia region introduced tax holidays for entrepreneurs.

The heating season in the region began on 2 November. Thanks to energy decentralization, whose implementation began two years ago, about 50 cogeneration units have been installed in the region, 23 of which are already operating. The rest are planned to be connected by the end of the year.

Also, 23 solar power plants were installed in Zaporizhzhia, mainly at medical facilities. In total, 150 boiler houses operate in the city to provide heating for 4500 buildings.

Recall that on 2 November Russian forces struck a school and a shelter in the settlement of Kamyshevakha in Zaporizhzhia region with FAB-3000 guided aerial bombs. The strike hit a school where humanitarian aid was being distributed. As a result of the strike, 53 people were killed, and rescuers continue to clear the rubble.