UN to implement $50 million energy project in Odesa by winter

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) plans to implement a project in Odessa aimed at strengthening the city's energy infrastructure. The project is expected to be completed by winter and will cost approximately $50 million, according to information provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Odessa is home to offices of six UN agencies that support the Ukrainian government and local authorities in overcoming the humanitarian consequences of the Russian shelling of the city and ports in the region.

The UN project aims to provide energy supply to municipal enterprises and critical infrastructure in Odessa. It will involve the installation of an 80 MW gas turbine, a transformer, compressors, nine gas generators, and control stations, as stated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In light of significant economic losses resulting from the mentioned attacks and the cessation of operations of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, together with the UN Representation in Ukraine, plans to organize a "Procurement and Suppliers Fair for UN Needs" in Odessa. The goal is to support local businesses and increase UN agency procurement in the Ukrainian market. The event's purpose is to provide UN agencies with information about Ukrainian goods and services and to enhance Ukrainian businesses' awareness of UN procurement practices.

The announcement also expresses gratitude to donor countries and international organizations that are providing support to the people of Ukraine in overcoming the consequences of this aggression.

Additionally, a mission from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has arrived in Odessa to assess the damage to cultural and religious sites caused by missile strikes from Russian occupying forces.