Ukraine’s transition to renewable energy sources has become a state priority and a personal choice for many Ukrainians. Among them are veterans who, after returning from the front, dedicate themselves to developing “green” energy. Today we’ll tell the story of Yuriy (hereinafter Y.H.), who chose a new path in renewable energy after serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Yuriy, tell us about your military experience.

Y.H.: From the first day of the full-scale invasion, February 24, I volunteered for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. I fought until June 2024. During this time, I served in various directions – first in Kyiv and Kyiv region, then in the Kharkiv direction, Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

What prompted you to leave military service?

Y.H.: It was a difficult decision. I have three children, and for a long time, I couldn’t be at home. Their psychological state needed paternal support. So I decided that at this stage, my presence was more needed by my family.

Why did you become interested in renewable energy specifically?

Y.H.: This topic caught my attention while serving in the army. Before the war, I had an acquaintance who worked with solar panels, and he told me a lot about this field. At the front, we directly used small charging stations with solar panels provided by volunteers – this helped charge power banks. I began to take more interest in this topic, read specialized literature, and gradually came to this sector.

What was your previous professional experience?

Y.H.: Before the war, I worked in roofing, so I have serious experience in installation work at heights. This became an additional advantage for working with solar panels. When I saw information about free courses for veterans from RePower Ukraine, I understood – this is exactly what I need.

How do you assess your current level of knowledge after completing the course? What else would you like to learn?

Y.H.: I want to study the issue of internal network connections more deeply, especially regarding connecting solar power plants to the consumer’s internal network. This is a separate electrical engineering direction that requires additional training.

I hope you acquire this knowledge as well. How do you see the prospects for renewable energy development in Ukraine?

Y.H.: Thank you. We’re only at the beginning of the journey. The industry is actively developing, new technologies are constantly emerging. For further growth, three key components are needed: qualified specialists who can work with new equipment; sufficient funding for the construction of solar power plants; and a clear understanding that this is the path to our country’s energy independence.

What advice would you give to other veterans who are considering mastering this profession?

Y.H.: The most important thing is not just to study but to immediately apply knowledge in practice. If you only study without practical application – it’s wasted time. You need to be ready for constant development, as technologies in this field update very quickly.

I know that you’re actually applying the knowledge in practice and already working in this field. Is that right?

Y.H.: Yes, I’m already working and actively applying all knowledge and skills in my work. That’s why I say it’s very important – not only to get theory but to start applying it in practice.

Thank you, Mr. Yuriy. Wishing you success and professional fulfillment!

Y.H.: Thank you!

The success stories of our graduates demonstrate that veterans have enormous potential for developing the renewable energy sector in Ukraine. Their discipline, responsibility, and desire for development create a solid foundation for implementing innovative energy solutions. Thanks to educational programs like “Solar ReStart” from RePower Ukraine, Ukraine’s defenders get an opportunity not only to master a new profession but also to contribute to the country’s energy independence. This is another front where our veterans continue the fight for a strong and independent Ukraine.