Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) revealed on Friday that the agency will allocate more than $190 million to the Securing Power, Advancing Resilience and Connectivity (SPARC) project. Over the course of five years, this initiative will deliver crucial energy assistance to the Government of Ukraine (GOU), focusing on enhancing the resilience, reliability, affordability, and security of Ukraine's electric power, natural gas, and district heating sectors.

In response to the urgent energy needs highlighted by Russia's recent assault on Ukraine's energy infrastructure on March 22, 2024, USAID's commitment to the SPARC project takes on heightened significance. The project will provide essential technical assistance, reform support, and equipment and services to bolster Ukraine's energy supply capabilities.

The announcement comes on the heels of the passage of the National Security Supplemental, which will see the United States allocate at least $1.4 billion in additional funding to aid Ukraine's economic recovery efforts.

Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion, USAID has allocated nearly $1 billion in energy assistance to Ukraine, laying the groundwork for both short and long-term resilience. This includes over $475 million in emergency support provided during the past two winters, enabling Ukraine to repair and maintain its energy infrastructure. Notable equipment supplied includes autotransformers to facilitate electricity transmission to communities nationwide and mobile boiler houses to provide heating to critical facilities such as schools and hospitals.

This ongoing assistance is instrumental in helping Ukrainians realize their vision for a prosperous, democratic, and independent nation. USAID's SPARC program will play a pivotal role in ensuring uninterrupted access to energy for millions of Ukrainians, empowering them to safeguard their homeland.

The unwavering support from the United States underscores its commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty, economic prosperity, and democratic institutions. Through initiatives like SPARC, USAID remains steadfast in its mission to support Ukraine's journey toward a brighter future.

Source: USAID