Firewood Sales Double as Ukrainians Rush to Alternative Heating Sources

Surge in Demand for Alternative Heating Options

According to Главком: Ukrainians are turning to wood as a primary heating fuel in record numbers. In the first months of this year, nearly 1.1 million cubic meters of firewood were sold-double the 534,000 cubic meters sold during the same period last year. This sharp increase highlights a major shift in how households are choosing to stay warm.

State enterprise "Forests of Ukraine" reports that it now ships roughly 225,000 cubic meters of wood to consumers each month. An operational reserve of about 200,000 cubic meters of firewood has already been stockpiled. The company plans to harvest an additional 2 million cubic meters by the end of 2026 to keep up with rising demand.

Pricing and Market Outlook

Firewood prices vary by wood type:

• Hardwoods (oak, beech, hornbeam, birch) - 1,400 hryvnias per cubic meter, VAT included.
• Softwoods and conifers (pine, alder) - 1,100 hryvnias per cubic meter.

In response to the trend, the enterprise has announced it will freeze wholesale firewood prices through spring 2027, a move likely to encourage further consumer interest.

Leadership at "Forests of Ukraine" assures there will be no market shortages.

The growing demand for firewood is closely tied to rising costs of conventional energy sources, pushing households to explore cheaper alternatives. By boosting wood harvesting and holding prices steady, "Forests of Ukraine" aims to stabilize the market for those relying on wood for home heating. This shift also aligns with broader environmental goals, as renewable energy sources gain importance in the fight against climate change.