At the German-Ukrainian online conference "Energy Efficiency in the Industry" acting head of the State Agency for Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving, Konstiantyn Hura, called on German companies to actively cooperate with Ukrainian companies in energy efficiency.

As is known, the industry is one of the most energy-intensive sectors in Ukraine. It accounts for about 30% of final energy consumption.

"Given the plans of the EU Green Deal, in particular, to introduce taxation of imported carbon-intensive goods, we need to accelerate the decarbonization of industry. The potential for work is great. Therefore, we have a wide field for joint projects, investments, exchange of experience and technology with German companies," said Kostiantyn Hura.

He also presented a new initiative prepared by the Ministry of Energy together with the State Agency for Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving and the Ukraine Denmark Energy Center - the Decarbonization Fund.

"The Fund should become a reliable source of stable funding for energy-efficient and environmental projects in industrial enterprises. To do this, it is planned to accumulate part of the revenues from the CO2 emissions tax. This is almost UAH 1 billion a year. Presently, these resources are directed to the general fund of the budget, and it is necessary to ensure they are transferred to reduce carbon dioxide emissions," said Kostiantyn Hura, adding that this initiative is being discussed with MPs.

Another financial instrument for companies is the Loan Guarantee Fund. UNIDO and Ukrgasbank has been working on its launch with the support of the Agency for Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving. Businesses will have an opportunity to take loans without collateral for up to 15 months for the implementation of energy management systems or modernization.

Summing up, Kostiantyn Hura assured the participants of the online conference that Germany is an important partner of Ukraine in the field of energy efficiency: "We are already cooperating with GIZ, Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung, DENA and others. And we strive to strengthen business ties for the sustainable development of both countries."

Background

The event was organized by the German-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce and Industry with the participation of Bertram von Moltke, Deputy Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Ukraine.