Strengthening Ukraine’s wind projects: Insights from the Galnaftogaz experience

by CEE Bankwatch

Despite critical procedural and technical issues, the Galnaftogaz wind project in Ukraine, backed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, is underway.

Shortcomings in the project’s environmental and social impact assessment may cause real harm to local hydrology, nature reserves, and wildlife. The most pressing risks should be mitigated, while the rest should serve as examples for stronger future projects.

Future projects must involve baseline hydrological studies to monitor the impacts on local water systems, utilise the community’s knowledge of the area to define boundaries more effectively, establish clear objectives, and oversee the area’s long-term management. Additionally, future projects must align with EU standards for biodiversity due diligence and proactively implement the EBRD’s Environmental and Social Policy.