**Ukraine’s Largest Energy Company DTEK and British Partner Octopus Energy Launch Solar Program to Rebuild and Decentralize Ukraine’s Energy**
In a significant move, Ukraine’s largest private energy company DTEK and the British clean energy group Octopus Energy have launched a program to install rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems at Ukrainian businesses and public institutions. The initiative, called RISE (Resilient Independent Solar Energy), aims to raise 100 million euros ($115 million) to finance 100 energy projects over three years.
The program was announced at Octopus Energy’s Tech Summit in London and is part of Ukraine’s efforts to rebuild its energy infrastructure after the devastating effects of Russia’s full-scale invasion. DTEK CEO Maksym Timchenko stated that about 70% of Ukraine’s thermal generation capacity has been damaged, destroyed or seized since the invasion began.
“This has created not only an urgent need to rebuild but also an opportunity to accelerate the shift to a decentralized, renewable energy system,” Timchenko said. The RISE program is designed to help stabilize the grid, lower electricity costs, and protect customers from outages.
The alternative energy systems will be installed by D.Solutions, DTEK’s business unit operating under the Yasno retail brand. The equipment will run on Octopus Energy’s AI-powered Kraken operating system, enabling businesses to optimize energy use in real time, reduce consumption during peak hours, and sell surplus electricity back to the grid.
The partnership between DTEK and Octopus Energy is a significant step towards Ukraine’s transition to renewable energy and decentralization of its energy system. According to DTEK, Ukraine’s commercial and industrial energy market has an untapped potential of 300 megawatts annually, valued at 200 million euros ($229 million).
**Commentary**
The RISE program is a vital initiative for Ukraine’s energy sector, which has been severely impacted by Russia’s invasion. By investing in decentralized renewable energy, Ukraine can reduce its dependence on imported fuels and decrease the country’s carbon footprint.
“This is a game-changer for Ukraine’s energy future,” said Greg Jackson, Octopus Energy Group founder and CEO. “They (DTEK) are rebuilding at pace and pioneering a decentralized, smart energy system powered by homegrown renewables.”
The partnership between DTEK and Octopus Energy demonstrates the potential for international cooperation in addressing the global challenges of climate change and energy security.
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