Eduard Sokolovskiy General Director of Kievenergo Date of Birth: 07.10.1972 Country: Ukraine

1. Biography of Eduard Sokolovsky
2. Improving Heating Systems
3. The Length of Kiev's Networks
4. Condition of the Pipes
5. Challenges in Repairing Networks
6. Video Surveillance for Repairs
7. Delayed Heating in Some Houses
8. Possible Financial Issues
9. Tariffs and Heat Meters

Biography of Eduard Sokolovsky

Eduard Sokolovsky is the CEO of Kievenergo, a leading energy company in Kiev. He has extensive experience in the energy industry and has played a crucial role in modernizing and improving the heating and hot water systems in the city.

Improving Heating Systems

Sokolovsky has been working tirelessly to address the complaints from residents about delayed heating in certain houses. He has increased the company's investments in modernization and repairs by eight times, resulting in a higher number of excavation works. Although these excavations have caused inconvenience to residents, the aim is to replace the internal pipes in order to provide high-quality heating for years to come.

The Length of Kiev's Networks

According to Sokolovsky, Kievenergo's networks cover a total length of 4,500 km in terms of single-pipe measurement. These networks include both hot water supply and central heating pipes. Half of these networks have exceeded their lifespan and require replacement, especially in areas with low-quality and corroded pipes due to high groundwater levels.

Condition of the Pipes

Different pipes have varying lifespans and technologies. Older pipes without proper insulation were laid directly in the ground, while newer pipes were placed in casings. The maximum lifespan for pipes with casing is 25 years. The situation is better in new residential areas, such as Poznyaky and Osokorky, where the communication systems have been tested and proven to be reliable.

Challenges in Repairing Networks

Sokolovsky acknowledges the challenges in repairing the networks without causing inconvenience to residents. The company aims to replace all worn-out pipes in the city, but this process will take almost 80 years at the current rate of 100 km per year. The excavation works have been more noticeable this year due to the record number of planned modernization and repairs, as well as emergency repairs. Limited resources force the company to prioritize repairing damages over beautification efforts.

Video Surveillance for Repairs

A system for video surveillance of repair works has been recently announced. Although it is primarily for monitoring purposes, Sokolovsky assures that repairs on heating pipelines are usually completed within one to two days, except for more complex issues. The company's teams work tirelessly day and night to address an average of 20 new damages per day.

Delayed Heating in Some Houses

Sokolovsky explains that several factors led to delayed heating in certain houses. Poor condition of internal networks, damages to heating pipelines after the heat was already turned on, and ongoing modernization works were the main reasons. The CEO emphasizes that the quality of services will not be affected regardless of the direct contracts with consumers, as international experience shows that contracts are typically made with homeowners' associations or housing authorities.

Possible Financial Issues

Regarding possible financial problems, Sokolovsky mentions the significant debts owed by the government and the company to Naftogaz and the need for economically justified tariffs. He hopes that resolving these issues will prevent any repeat of last winter's heating supply problems. However, if the debts remain, there is a possibility that similar issues may arise again.

Tariffs and Heat Meters

Sokolovsky states that the company has submitted its proposals for heat energy tariffs to the National Commission for State Regulation of Energy and Utilities. The installation of heat meters is viewed positively, as it allows for accurate measurement of energy consumption and eliminates any disputes about overcharging. However, the impact on the cost will only be known once the meters are installed.