Energy storage systems
Energy storage systems (ESS) are a key element of a modern power system. They accumulate electrical energy and release it into the grid when needed. In the context of the energy transition and wartime challenges, ESS have evolved from a promising technology into an instrument of physical survival and a fundamental pillar of the resilience of Ukraine’s interconnected power system.
As of the end of 2025, the energy storage market in Ukraine is actively functioning. The foundation for this development was laid by the adoption of Laws of Ukraine No. 2046-IX and No. 3220-IX, which defined the legal status of the ESS operator, integrated the technology into the concept of “green” transformation, and enabled its use by both active consumers and industrial producers.
A key milestone in the commercialization of the sector was the long-term ancillary services auctions conducted by NPC Ukrenergo in August 2024. The procurement of 99 MW of capacity for frequency containment reserves demonstrated strong investor readiness for competition, as more than 230 price bids were submitted.
Current capacities and strategic goals
The year 2025 marked a transition to the implementation of utility-scale projects. A total of 340 MW of energy storage system (ESS) capacity was integrated into Ukraine’s power system. According to modelling by NPC Ukrenergo, the minimum requirement for energy storage in the power system is 1 GW in the near term. The strategic vision for the sector foresees growth of installed ESS capacity to 700 MW by 2027, and reaching 3–3.5 GW by 2030.
Economics and synergy with wind energy
Energy storage systems (ESS) are a universal tool that enables the use of multiple business models: from providing ancillary services to engaging in arbitrage operations on the day-ahead electricity market.
The global trend of declining technology costs – where in 2024 the price of lithium-ion systems fell by 18% to around $115 per kWh – makes such projects economically attractive even without additional subsidies.
Of particular importance is the combination of wind power plants with energy storage systems. Modelling shows that integrating ESS into renewable energy projects can increase their profitability by approximately 4%, ensuring more stable financial performance and more efficient commercialization of “green” energy.
The development of the Ukrainian market is in line with global trends. Ukraine has joined the Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge initiative, which aims to increase the global capacity of ESS to 1,500 GW by 2030. At the same time, national legislation is being harmonized with EU norms, in particular in terms of environmental standards and requirements for the carbon footprint of batteries, which paves the way for full integration into the European energy space.
