When Russian missiles target a Ukrainian power plant, sending employees rushing to bomb shelters, a small team remains in the sandbag-reinforced control room to manually keep operations running.

For security reasons, energy officials requested that Reuters not disclose the plant’s location. The facility has endured repeated missile attacks this year, with Russia ramping up its assault on Ukraine’s power grid as the war enters its third winter.

“We stay here during the attacks, even knowing missiles are coming our way,” said Serhii, 52, a shift leader with over three decades of experience at the plant. “To say we’re not afraid would be a lie. We’re normal people, and of course, we’re scared.”

Outside the control room, a large machine area shows extensive damage from missile strikes, including those on November 17. During a recent Reuters visit, the scent of burning lingered as water dripped from a damaged roof. Missile fragments littered the floor, alongside twisted metal and broken equipment. Workers in soiled overalls focused on repairs, navigating damaged power units.

Serhii and his colleagues see themselves on the front line of a critical battle—ensuring power for millions despite relentless attacks.

The plant, owned by DTEK, Ukraine's largest private power provider, is one of five remaining thermal power facilities. Before Russia’s February 2022 invasion, DTEK supplied a quarter of Ukraine’s electricity. For security reasons, the company withheld details about the plant’s location and current output, fearing such information could aid future attacks.

The November missile strikes caused severe damage, reversing months of repair efforts. “We’ve been set back six months,” said Oleksandr, 52, a senior worker.

A Challenging Winter Ahead

Russia launched its second major assault on Ukraine's energy grid this month, leading to widespread power outages. The damage from November 17 and 28 strikes has significantly worsened the grid’s condition, dashing earlier hopes for a relatively stable winter despite previous repairs. Long blackouts now loom as temperatures hover around freezing.

Despite the challenges, plant workers remain committed. "This is our front line," said Serhii. "While some fight in the east, we fight here to ensure Ukraine has electricity and keeps functioning."

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters