Heat Detoxification in times of War: Improving resilience in Vinnytsua

Located in central Ukraine in a time of full-scale war, Vinnytsia’s heat detox was all the more challenging. But with the pressing need to increase resilience, improve citizens’ comfort and meet European standards, Vinnytsia has invested in an ambitious heat transition project.  

The need to detox 

The motivations behind Vinnytsia’s heat detox were many. For starters, the need to ensure the availability of heat and hot water in residents’ homes even during power outages was a big motive behind the city’s ambition to become more resilient and increase its reliance on locally-sourced energy. Moreover, Vinnytsia is well aware of the efforts needed to get on track with the Green Deal and the decarbonisation targets set by the European Union. The city also plans to sign a decarbonisation commitment by 2030.  

Despite the limited means available, as the ongoing war directs most funds to security and defence, Vinnytsia is finding ways to accelerate its heat transition and grow closer to a decarbonised future. 

The first steps towards a healthy future 

To achieve this ambitious objective, a broader project was key in setting the foundations: the Vinnytsia Regional Office for Decarbonisation and Energy Efficiency, opened on January 25, 2024.  The goal of the office is to promote the implementation of energy-efficient solutions and reduce carbon emissions in the community. This includes promoting the attraction of "green" investments and financial opportunities through national, international and local programmes, while also providing consultation and assistance.  

In total, the office provided consultation and assistance to more than 200 people, giving the opportunity to companies and citizens alike to see their questions answered on crucial heat topics: how to install solar power plants, get compensation for implementing energy efficiency measures or even obtain funding for insulating their homes. 

Starting a healthy detox mix 

Although the current plans on heat focus on the newly built cogeneration plants, there are important steps being taken for healthier heat in Vinnytsia. Repairing the existing heat infrastructure, namely the district heating network, is a priority, as it allows for more energy efficiency. For homes that aren’t connected to the grid, individual heating points – namely heat pumps – are being installed. And in the mix of green sources fuelling Vinnytsia’s heat system, healthy ingredients start to appear - solar heat, air-based sources, and biogas. 

Where Vinnytsia is in its heat strategy

Vinnytsia's Heat Detox

Covenant Figures 

• Signatory to the Covenant of Mayors since: 2011