Lviv prepares for blackouts: the city tests all life support systems

According to hvylya.net: The mayor of Lviv, Andriy Sadovyi, announced the introduction of a testing regime for the city's life support systems. The check will last three weeks and cover all critically important infrastructure facilities.

As Sadovyi reported on social media on October 10, 2025, the decision for a large-scale check is related to potential complications in winter. 'Winter may be difficult. Last night in Kyiv proved this once again,' wrote the mayor.

This coming weekend, the first large-scale testing will be conducted in Lviv. Traffic lights will be disconnected from the main power supply and switched to alternative energy sources. This will allow testing their functionality in case of a blackout.

Systems for water supply, electricity supply, gas supply, public transport, and communication will be tested. 'We do this every year, but for the first time simultaneously across the entire city,' Sadovyi noted.

The mayor also addressed the issue of heating. According to him, it will not be possible to supply heat to the apartments of Lviv residents in the next few weeks due to the overall situation in the country. 'Regarding heating, it is indeed cold. But now the situation in the country is such that in the next few weeks we won't be able to provide heating. We need to wait a bit to do everything right - so that there is warmth in winter,' Sadovyi explained.

Heating season and conditions for granting subsidies in Ukraine

It should be noted that in Ukraine, the heating season traditionally starts in October, and heat is supplied after three days with an average daily temperature below +8°C. At the same time, heating tariffs vary significantly between regions: the highest is recorded in Kherson (2002.2 UAH per Gcal), while the lowest is in Chernivtsi (1204.6 UAH per Gcal).

Moreover, starting from October 1, the Pension Fund began a mass recalculation of housing subsidies for the heating season. For most Ukrainians, this process will take place automatically, but some categories of citizens, especially those whose household composition has changed, will need to personally contact the Fund to update their data.

Ukrainians who heat their homes with solid fuel can also receive state support in the form of housing subsidies, benefits, and a one-time cash payment. This subsidy is granted once a year for the entire heating season and does not deprive the right to receive assistance in paying for other communal services.

It is worth adding that before the start of the season, homeowners with gas heating need to check the operability of appliances and networks by submitting an application to the local gas company. To save on expenses and avoid overpayments for utility bills, Ukrainians are advised to optimize heat losses by insulating walls, floors, and adjusting windows.

During the preparation for the winter period, the city of Lviv will test life support systems in testing mode. Such measures are aimed at increasing readiness for potential complications during winter. One aspect is heating, which, according to Mayor Andriy Sadovyi, may be problematic due to the overall situation in the country. At the same time, the heating season begins in all regions of Ukraine, and the mass recalculation of housing subsidies helps citizens receive the necessary support.