The Swedish government has approved an additional SEK 500 million ($49 million) to support heating and electricity in Ukraine.

As reported on the Swedish government's website, the new support is aimed at covering the needs of the most vulnerable people in the country. This new support will be provided in parallel with the extensive Swedish support that is already being provided to the energy sector in Ukraine.

"Today, the Government is presenting an additional SEK 500 million in support for heating and electricity supply in Ukraine. Russia is increasingly targeting important energy infrastructure with its attacks. This new support will go towards generating electricity for around 185, 000 people and help keep Ukraine's society, economy and businesses going," Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Johan Forssell said. He added this is crucial for Ukraine's resilience.

Minister for Energy, Business and Industry Ebba Busch said Sweden will continue to support Ukraine "for as long as it takes." "These SEK 500 million will be one of Sweden's largest contributions yet to Ukraine's energy supply and will help generate electricity for hospitals and thousands of Ukrainian homes," she said.

The initiative includes two gas turbines for initial electricity production. The production facility will be protected in a way that minimizes the disruptive effects of Russian attacks.

The main responsibility for Sweden's contribution will lie with the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. The project is a joint investment with the Ukrainian state energy company and other international financial institutions. The goal is for the production facility to be operational in 2025.