Oleksiy Chernyshov: Ukrainian UGS can become a reliable pillar of support for the European energy security

Ukraine's underground gas storage facilities are the largest in Europe and their resources can become a pillar of support for the EU's energy security. This was emphasized today, on 16 March 2023 by Oleksiy Chernyshov, CEO of Naftogaz Group at a meeting with Artur Lorkowski, Director of the Energy Community Secretariat (ECS).

He also asked the ECS representatives to help in the promotion of Ukrainian UGS facilities in Europe.

"Ukraine, being one of the contracting parties to the Energy Community, highly appreciates your support and assistance. We would also be very thankful if the ESC could use its mechanisms to promote the use of Ukrainian underground gas storage facilities by market participants. In particular, through raising awareness of future gas suppliers within the Gas Procurement Platform," Oleksiy Chernyshov said.

The meeting also focused on deepening cooperation in the increase of gas production. "One of our priorities today is also to restore a normal operation of the gas market in Ukraine. We are proactive in increasing our production, both by Naftogaz Group and by private producers under appropriate conditions to be created for them. Ukraine is preparing for various scenarios for the next heating season. At the same time, the Naftogaz team is making its best to manage without gas imports this year for the first time in the history of independent Ukraine," the Head of Naftogaz Group added.

Artur Lorkowski also noted how Ukraine has coped with challenges during this extremely difficult winter despite the war.