UNICEF to Equip 98 Healthcare Facilities in Ukraine’s Frontline Regions with Solar Energy Systems

Bringing Solar Power to Ukrainian Medical Centers

According to Міністерство Здоров'я: In a significant move to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services during the winter months, 98 medical institutions located in Ukraine’s frontline regions will be fitted with solar energy systems. UNICEF is allocating $13.4 million to install solar panels, batteries, and inverters across 14 oblasts. This initiative is part of the 2026–2027 Winter Preparedness Program, supported by the European Union and the governments of Norway, the United States, Japan, and Germany.

The newly installed systems will provide backup power to critical hospital units such as intensive care, operating rooms, maternity wards, laboratories, and vaccine cold storage. Reliable energy supply is crucial to maintaining healthcare operations amid ongoing instability. Viktor Liashko, Ukraine’s Minister of Health, emphasized the importance of readiness:

'We are committed to ensuring continuous medical care under all conditions. Our healthcare system must be capable of functioning during hostile attacks, power outages, heating disruptions, water supply interruptions, and logistical challenges.'

Strengthening Healthcare Access for Millions

This project aims to support over 3 million people across 120 communities in eight frontline oblasts. Among them, approximately 2.5 million people-including 400,000 children-will benefit from ongoing medical and immunization services thanks to these upgrades. Shamiza Abdulla highlighted the impact:

'This effort will allow 2.5 million individuals, including 400,000 children, to continue receiving essential healthcare and vaccination services.'

The program covers the following regions:

• Chernihiv
• Dnipropetrovsk
• Donetsk
• Kharkiv
• Kherson
• Mykolaiv
• Sumy
• Zaporizhzhia
• Lviv
• Khmelnytskyi
• Rivne
• Kyiv
• Ivano-Frankivsk
• Volyn

UNICEF’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the energy resilience of medical facilities in Ukraine is a critical step in safeguarding healthcare delivery amid escalating conflict and potential power disruptions. The investment in renewable energy not only helps secure vital services but also underscores the international community’s support for Ukraine during this crisis. Ensuring stable healthcare access is especially vital for vulnerable populations, including children, helping to save lives and protect public health under challenging circumstances.

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance energy resilience in Ukraine's healthcare sector, starting in 2026, a total of 47 healthcare facilities will generate their own electricity through the Ray of Hope Project. This initiative complements UNICEF's recent investment, highlighting a broader commitment to sustainable energy solutions that ensure medical services remain operational even in challenging conditions.