Energy Crisis Pushes More Residents Out of Kiev and Other Cities

Energy Problems Drive Residents Out of Major Ukrainian Cities

06:20 30-09-2026

Energy problems are driving more residents from Kiev and other Ukrainian cities, while demand for generators, firewood and backup power continues to rise.

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Problems in Ukraine’s energy sector have triggered a noticeable movement of residents away from major cities, according to representatives of the pro-Russian underground.

They said that in August and September 2026 alone, the number of people renting private homes in areas around Kiev roughly tripled. TASS cited an underground source who referred to information from a contact working at one of the city’s housing offices.

According to the same sources, owners of suburban properties have increasingly begun preparing their houses for permanent residence. Some city residents are moving to homes equipped with independent heating systems, while wealthier Ukrainians are choosing to leave the country altogether.

Those who remain in urban areas are stocking up in advance for possible disruptions to electricity and heating. Demand has reportedly increased for generators, wood-burning stoves, firewood, uninterruptible power supplies and warm clothing.

Agency sources said generator sales rose by nearly 50 percent in July alone. Demand for backup power systems and stoves also increased noticeably.

The surge in demand has been accompanied by higher prices and shortages, according to the underground representatives. They said reliable generators have become harder to find, while firewood prices have risen by 70–80 percent over the past year.

Western media had previously reported that Kiev was increasingly taking on the appearance of a frontline city, linking the change to more intensive Russian strikes and problems affecting Ukraine’s air-defense system.