This was stated by Prime Minister Denis Shmygal at a briefing during a working trip to Donetsk region, a Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“Today, Ukraine needs coal more than ever. Due to this gas price, the beginning of the heating season, and the shortage of coal, the Ministry of Energy is doing everything possible to make Ukrainian mines lift as much coal as possible . Therefore, we look forward to increasing production.” said Shmigal.

He also stressed that Ukraine currently imports coal to ensure the operation of thermal power plants.

According to the official, the main electricity consumption is now covered by NNEGC “Energoatom” and hydropower, and coal generation is shunting and covers peak consumption.

“So far, we are very confident that we will pass it (heating season – ed.), Despite the difficulties that exist in the energy sector,” – said Shmygal.

In addition, he said that the state is fully fulfilling its obligations to pay miners wages.

As reported, in January-September, Ukraine produced 21.816 million tons of coal, which is 6.5% higher than the planned production. Compared to the same period in 2020, coal production increased by 787.8 thousand tons.

As of the morning of October 25, 2021, coal reserves in the warehouses of thermal power plants (TPPs) and thermal power plants (TPPs) amounted to 701.3 thousand tons, which is 6.9% less than the reserves on October 18.