Ukrainian homeowners are turning to solar power to prepare for a challenging winter, as the country faces widespread power outages due to Russian attacks.

Over 50% of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure has been destroyed since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022. In response, many Ukrainians are installing solar panels to maintain electricity during potential blackouts.

Residents with rooftop solar systems in apartment buildings are using power converters and batteries to store energy for up to 24 hours. Ihor Kondenko, a resident of Kyiv, shared that he uses solar energy daily. "On sunny days, we rely solely on solar power," he said. "We also charge our batteries, so after sunset, our home is powered by stored electricity."

The Energy Efficiency Fund (EEF), established five years ago to support Ukraine’s transition to green energy, helped Kondenko connect to solar power. The EEF offers grants to homeowners, covering up to 70% of the costs for energy-efficient equipment.

However, the war has shifted the focus of the program. "Our main goal is to help people get through a difficult winter," said Dmytro Syrykh, Technical Director at the EEF. "Supporting clean energy production remains part of the mission, but right now, it's about ensuring people have reliable power in their homes."