The Energy and Coal Industry Ministry of Ukraine should seek financial resources to boost coal production and ensure the proper activity of the industry, Ukrainian Prime Minister Volodymyr Groysman said, commenting on results of the government meeting with participation of the leadership of the Energy and Coal Industry Ministry and the Finance Ministry.
“Until September 1, the Energy and Coal Industry Ministry and the Minister personally (Ihor Nasalyk) should focus on seeking financial resources to boost production and ensure the proper activity of the industry. I am ready to help to assert our energy independence,” Groysman said.
Currently, there are 102 state-owned coalmines in Ukraine, but the overwhelming majority is located in the Joint Forces Operation area in Donbas. Only 33 mines operate outside the JFO area. Of these, only four mines are profitable. During the first five months of 2018, 1.852,900 tons of coal were extracted, down by 3.6% than planned and by 7.6% YoY. At the same time, the product cost grew by more than 30.5% compared to last year. (Ukrinform/Ukrainian metal)