Energoatom has uncovered a large-scale corruption scheme that led to the embezzlement of UAH 170 million during the construction of the Tashlyk pumped storage power plant. The case involves the owner of several companies and the former head of the Atomproektengineering department of Energoatom. The contractor company that performed the work systematically violated deadlines and was in bankruptcy proceedings.
- Corruption scheme at Energoatom worth UAH 170 million exposed.
- The losses are related to the construction of the Tashlyk pumped storage power plant.
- The contractor company was in the process of bankruptcy and was failing to meet deadlines.
- The management system was purchased through a foreign-controlled company.
Details of the Energoatom embezzlement case
A corruption scheme involving the embezzlement of UAH 170 million was uncovered during the construction of the Tashlyk hydroelectric power plant. The owner of several companies organised a mechanism whereby the procurement of the control system was carried out through a controlled foreign company with a significant overestimation of the cost.
Former Head of the Department of the separate subdivision «Atomproektengineering» of SE NNEGC «Energoatom»is among the suspects in the case. His role was to coordinate with the contractor and draw up additional agreements that changed the scope and list of works.
Problems with the contractor and failure to meet deadlines
The contractor company performing the work at the site was in the process of going bankrupt. It systematically violated the deadlines, which negatively affected the pace of construction of the pumped storage plant.
Additional agreements with the contractor were constantly concluded, changing the scope of work and the amount of contracts. This created opportunities for manipulation and artificial overstatement of the cost of work.
Implications for Ukraine's critical infrastructure
The Tashlyk pumped storage power plant is a critical infrastructure facility important for the country's energy security. Corrupt practices at this facility could lead to delays in commissioning the plant and increase the cost of the project.
Uncovering the scheme is an important step in fighting corruption in state-owned enterprises operating in the energy sector. This is also a signal to other agencies that they need to strengthen control over procurement and the implementation of state projects.
