How conscious energy consumption and energy-efficient measures can help the energy security of Ukraine, Sofia Zhyvoglyad, the winner of the Essay Contest on energy security, which was held by the USAID Energy Security Project (ESP), shared in her essay with online.ua.
Ukraine’s energy security determines not only the country’s economic development but also its national security, independence, and the fate of millions of citizens. In this essay, I want to share my opinion on strengthening energy security for Ukraine and me.
Strengthening Ukraine’s energy security will allow us to reduce our dependence on energy imports and minimize political risks. Energy security guarantees stability and economic development, essential for improving citizens’ quality of life.
Energy security is of great importance to me personally. My family is from Energodar, a city currently under Russian occupation. Energodar is known as the largest nuclear power plant in Europe. My father worked at this station for 22 years. My family knows how important it is to ensure the protection and reliability of energy facilities. Currently, the station is under the control of the occupying forces. It is very sad that this and other energy objects can be used as instruments of influence, and the misuse of a peaceful atom can lead to an ecological disaster.
Strengthening energy security means that other young people and I will have the opportunity to get a quality education, develop our talents, and realize our potential in our country. Supporting initiatives for developing renewable energy sources, promoting innovation, and active participation in public energy policy discussions will help strengthen energy security.
Strengthening Ukraine’s energy security is not only the task of the government or state-owned energy companies; it concerns every citizen, as it is essential to stabilize and secure the operation of the energy system for the present and the future. My responsibility is to consciously consume energy and take appropriate energy-efficient measures at home, school, and work to help the Ukrainian energy system function despite the war.
