Finance
Ukraine's electricity imports jump 40% to record 894 gigawatt hours in January
Published by Global Banking and Finance Review
Posted on February 2, 2026
2 min readLast updated: February 2, 2026
Quick Summary
Ukraine's electricity imports surged 40% in January 2026 to a record 894 GWh due to Russian attacks. Hungary led with 45% of imports.
Ukraine Sees 40% Surge in Electricity Imports to Record High in January
Impact of Russian Attacks on Ukraine's Energy Imports
KYIV, Feb 2 (Reuters) - Ukraine's electricity imports jump by 40% in January 2026 versus December 2025 to a record 894 gigawatt hours amid constant Russian attacks on the Ukrainian energy system, analyst ExPro said on Monday.
Overview of Electricity Imports
"This is the highest import figure for the period of full-scale war. Hungary continues to account for the largest share – 45%. Overall, supplies increased in all directions except Moldova," the consultancy said in a report.
Consequences of Energy Sector Attacks
In recent months, Russia has sharply increased the intensity and scale of its attacks on Ukraine's energy sector, targeting power stations, energy distribution systems and gas sector facilities.
International Response and Agreements
Two consecutive attacks on the generating and thermal power facilities of the capital Kyiv left 6,000 apartment buildings without heating, and the power grid operator was forced to cut off electricity supplies to entire districts for dozens of hours.
It took workers several weeks to restore heat to most buildings, but more than 200 remain cold in the midst of unusually severe frosts that have swept across Ukraine.
Last week, following peace talks in Abu Dhabi and a request from US President Donald Trump, Moscow said it agreed to halt strikes on Ukraine's energy targets until Sunday.
(Reporting by Pavel Polityuk, Editing by Louise Heavens)
Key Takeaways
- •Ukraine's electricity imports increased by 40% in January 2026.
- •A record 894 gigawatt hours were imported amid Russian attacks.
- •Hungary accounted for the largest share of imports at 45%.
- •Russian attacks have intensified on Ukraine's energy sector.
- •Peace talks led to a temporary halt in energy-targeted strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ukraine's electricity imports jump 40% to record 894 gigawatt hours in January
1What are electricity imports?
Electricity imports refer to the purchase of electrical energy from one country to another, typically to meet demand or supply shortages.
2What is renewable energy?
Renewable energy is energy generated from natural resources that are replenished, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
3What is an energy crisis?
An energy crisis occurs when the demand for energy exceeds supply, leading to shortages and increased prices.
