The InnovateUkraine initiative, a joint effort between the UK and Ukraine, has kicked off, with a commitment of £16 million from the UK government to support 13 innovative projects in green
energy within Ukraine.
With a focus on bolstering Ukraine's energy sector and fostering sustainability, the UK government's investment aims to steer the country away from fossil fuels while aiding in post-conflict reconstruction.
Administered by a UK-based innovation agency, the programme will see an infusion of an additional £5 million from private sector partners, facilitating collaboration among more than 50 organizations from both the UK and Ukraine.
Herman Halushchenko, Ukraine's Minister of Energy, emphasized the significance of energy independence in securing the nation's future. He highlighted the broader implications of transitioning to green technologies, framing it as crucial for national security and fostering ongoing collaboration with the UK in the energy realm.
British Ambassador to Ukraine, Martin Harris, expressed pride in the UK's ongoing support for Ukraine's energy sector, particularly in light of recent adversities. Stressing the importance of sustainability, Harris underscored the collaborative nature of the initiative, bringing together expertise from various sectors of both nations.
Among the standout projects are innovations in space heating technology for heat pumps, battery storage solutions for renewables, targeted approaches to harnessing geothermal energy, and optimization of bioenergy resources in Ukraine.
Over the next two years, the funded projects will execute their plans, with support from an accelerator program aimed at securing further investment and facilitating market entry.
Originally unveiled at the UK-hosted Ukraine Recovery Conference in June 2023, this partnership reflects a year-long collaboration between the UK and Ukrainian governments. By leveraging the scientific and technological strengths of both nations, the initiative not only addresses Ukraine's immediate needs but also contributes to tackling broader global challenges. Photo by Nick Grapsy, Wikimedia commons.