Transcarpathia does not cover even 20% of its energy needs, and the development of wind power plants is being held back by “eco-activists”

The Transcarpathian region is on the brink of an energy crisis due to a lack of its energy sources, exacerbated by obstacles to the development of wind power generation by local activists. As a result of attacks by Russian troops, the Burshtyn TPP, which is essential for the region’s energy supply, was destroyed, and the region’s generation, represented mainly by small hydroelectric power plants, covers only 20% of its needs. Imports of electricity from Europe are unable to fully compensate for the deficit, leaving more than 1.2 million residents of the region vulnerable.

The development of wind power is a promising solution for Transcarpathia, meeting the objectives of the Energy Strategy of Ukraine until 2050, which provides for the possibility of self-supply of electricity to the regions. Local wind power plants will be able to provide energy even when main lines are damaged, and their use is environmentally friendly and contributes to the restoration of the environment.

The construction of wind farms will also create new jobs, attract investment, and increase revenues to local budgets, as 3% of the revenues from the sale of electricity go directly to communities. In addition, the availability of free land for installing wind turbines makes it possible to develop this industry without a significant impact on the ecosystem. An example is the planned location of thirty windmills on the Runa valley, which will occupy only 1% of the territory.

Despite the apparent advantages, there is opposition from environmental activists led by journalist Olena Mudra, who are protesting against the development of wind energy in the region. They oppose any energy projects, covering this with environmental arguments.

At the same time, disinformation is spreading in the media and social networks about the alleged adverse impact of wind energy on the nature of the Carpathians and people’s health. Residents are being turned against investors in this industry, presenting them as enemies who seek to turn the Carpathians into industrial zones.

Against the backdrop of the war with the Russian Federation, the issue of developing Ukraine’s energy independence becomes even more urgent. The true motives of the opposition’s activities are worrying and require attention from the relevant authorities.