The 100 Year Partnership, formalised during Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Kyiv, broadens and deepens the relationship across defence and non-military areas and enables closer community links. It cements the UK’s position as a preferred partner for Ukraine in the substantial challenge of restoring and transforming Ukraine’s energy sector. Beyond energy, the Partnership defines strategic areas of cooperation in critical minerals and low-carbon industrial production.
This historical agreement encompasses nine key pillars, with energy collaboration at its core. InnovateUkraine showcases this commitment, with its tight focus on providing Ukraine with the best and latest innovations to reconstruct and modernise its energy system.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:
‘‘Putin’s ambition to wrench Ukraine away from its closest partners has been a monumental strategic failure. Instead, we are closer than ever, and this partnership will take that friendship to the next level.’’
‘’This is not just about the here and now, it is also about an investment in our two countries for the next century, bringing together technology development, scientific advances and cultural exchanges, and harnessing the phenomenal innovation shown by Ukraine in recent years for generations to come.’’
In its second phase, InnovateUkraine will use up to £17m in UK funding to support innovative energy projects across Ukraine. This investment aims to pilot low-carbon solutions tailored to the nation’s unique energy requirements, with a strong emphasis into sustainability and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The programme encourages collaboration between UK and Ukrainian experts, ensuring the integration of cutting-edge technologies and best practices.
A cornerstone of this Partnership is the development of renewables, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. InnovateUkraine is backing projects in wind, solar, and bioenergy – capitalising on Ukraine’s vast size and renewables potential. These initiatives aim not only to meet domestic energy demands but also to position Ukraine as a key player in the European energy market.
By investing in modern grids and storage solutions, InnovateUkraine aims to ensure a reliable supply of energy, capable of anticipating future challenges. This infrastructure will be pivotal to Ukraine’s economic recovery and long-term growth.
Beyond energy, the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership envisages collaboration in critical minerals and green steel production. Our shared goal is to enable Ukraine to maximise its mineral reserves in an equitable and sustainable way. The aim here is: to develop modern, low-carbon industries; create high-value jobs; and reinforce economic resilience.
The UK-Ukraine 100 year Partnership sets out a shared vision for a prosperous and secure future. InnovateUkraine is a tangible example of this vision, driving the transformation of Ukraine’s energy landscape through innovation, collaboration, and long-term support. As the UK and Ukraine begin a new century of friendship, InnovateUkraine stands as a symbol of optimism and growth, illuminating the path toward a sustainable and resilient Ukraine.
For more information on InnovateUkraine and its funding opportunities, visit: innovateukraine.io
