Ukraine's energy consumption has neared record highs while nearly 500 settlements are without power due to a combination of Russian military strikes, air raids, and adverse weather conditions. Ukraine, once an electricity exporter, now relies on emergency power imports from Romania and Poland to meet demand. The energy sector is strained as it enters the second winter of war, with infrastructure damaged from months of attacks. Ukrainians are encouraged to economize electricity amidst these challenges. The grid operator Ukrenergo reported the high consumption levels and stated that no free capacity is available at power plants. Additionally, some power facilities have been shut down for emergency repairs due to damage from shelling and technical issues.