Kyiv ramps up crews to restore power and heat — more than 255 already working; numbers to rise amid heating shortages
Systemic work, not always visible in the headlines but felt in apartments: due to damage to networks in the capital, more than 1,100 buildings remain without heating. The city and the state are increasing the number of emergency crews and receiving international assistance to speed up the restoration of services.
By Tetiana Suchkova-Ladik
February 6, 2026 · 2 min read
Current status
In Kyiv, more than 255 crews are working to restore electricity and heat. By decision of the headquarters, their number will be increased — a step aimed at reducing outage times and lowering risks for residents and critical infrastructure.
“We held a meeting of the Emergency Response Headquarters. Officials reported on schedules for restoring energy facilities and CHP plants. We are controlling the process at all stages.”
— Denys Shmyhal, Minister of Energy
Work priorities
Particular attention is being paid to buildings with damaged internal networks — these are the most complex cases, which require time and additional resources. Currently, more than 1,100 homes in the city remain without heating, so the speed of the crews’ work directly affects the comfort and safety of thousands of families.
“Special attention to the most problematic buildings with damage to internal networks. If necessary, we involve additional personnel. Grateful to everyone who restores damaged networks day and night.”
— Denys Shmyhal, Minister of Energy
Staff incentives and international aid
To incentivize the emergency recovery crews, the Diia app has launched accepting applications for payments: UAH 20,000 to each worker for January, February and March — direct material support for those eliminating the consequences of Russian attacks on energy infrastructure.
Today more than 173 tonnes of energy equipment arrived in the country; tomorrow Kyiv is expecting 22 powerful generators of the 48 that Lithuania recently transferred. There are also deliveries from Japan’s JICA, and the government reported an aid package from Sweden worth around $100 million.
“Just today we delivered to companies more than 173 tonnes of energy equipment. Tomorrow Kyiv is expecting 22 powerful generators of the 48 that Lithuania recently handed over to Ukraine. There are deliveries from Japan’s JICA.”
— Denys Shmyhal, Minister of Energy
Communications infrastructure and next steps
Work is also underway to strengthen the resilience of mobile communications: authorities are bringing in additional capacity so people can maintain contact during outages and receive emergency information.
“I stressed the importance of accelerating this work. People must be provided with communications during outages.”
— Denys Shmyhal, Minister of Energy
What this means
Increasing the number of crews and the arrival of equipment speeds up service restoration, reduces risks for vulnerable groups, and contributes to economic stability. It is also a sign of international support: assistance from Lithuania, Japan and Sweden strengthens Ukraine’s operational capabilities.
At the same time, the outcome will depend on logistics, the availability of spare parts, and the safety of work areas. Whether the new resources will be enough to fully restore heat to all residents depends on the pace of equipment deliveries and the reinforcement of crews on the ground.
