Meeting with Mobile Operators
On January 22, Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko convened a meeting with representatives of mobile network operators to address the critical issue of maintaining network functionality during widespread electricity blackouts. The discussions centered on the severe challenges posed by attacks on infrastructure and systemic power grid failures. Specific data was presented on the damage sustained by the company Kyivstar, revealing that approximately one thousand of its sites are currently non-operational, with up to 60% of the operator's infrastructure disconnected from the power supply in nine regions. Ensuring communication continuity is a major logistical challenge in Ukraine, where infrastructure is frequently targeted.
Acting Minister of Digital Transformation, Oleksandr Borniakov, underscored the vital importance of communication for the public. He reported that, alongside the Prime Minister and colleagues from other ministries, they discussed further steps to enhance network autonomy. Among the measures already being implemented is Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 1532, which enables the involvement of local communities in generating power for operators' base stations.
Measures to Improve Communication Stability
A dedicated coordination headquarters for communication stability has been established. To bolster resilience, 92% of base stations are now equipped with batteries capable of providing up to eight hours of service. Furthermore, over one-third of base stations have generators that allow them to function for more than three days without grid power. Operators have also secured contracts for an additional 15,000 generators to improve network stability during outages. These combined efforts are designed to ensure reliable communication for the population under difficult conditions.
Maintaining stable mobile network operations during an energy crisis is critically important for public communication and information security. In the context of ongoing active hostilities and shelling in Ukraine, reliable connectivity becomes even more essential, as it enables emergency coordination, the receipt of critical alerts, and contact with loved ones. The implementation of measures to increase the autonomy of base stations will help mitigate the impact of power cuts and ensure the continuity of communication services for citizens.