How S1 VDNG Operates During Power Outages

S1 VDNG has had a well-coordinated backup power system in place since the first power outages in 2022. This system helps maintain the building’s essential functions during blackouts.

Even when Kyiv experiences a power outage, elevators, heating, and water supply at S1 VDNG continue to operate. This helps residents maintain their usual level of comfort.

A powerful generator supplies electricity to the building’s main technical equipment and part of its shared infrastructure. S1 Property, the company responsible for managing income-generating real estate, oversees the generator’s operation, refueling, and switching to backup power 24/7.

Here is a detailed look at how the system works.

Elevators

S1 VDNG has six elevators — three in each section of the building. During a power outage, the generator can power one elevator in each section.

This means residents do not have to climb the stairs to the 25th floor during a blackout, although elevator waiting times may increase.

Water Supply and Hot Water

S1 VDNG has its own gas boiler room, which heats water directly within the building.

During power outages, the generator keeps the pumping equipment for the water supply, hot water circulation, and boiler room operational.

However, the water supply also depends on the availability of water and sufficient pressure in the municipal network. If the centralized cold water supply is interrupted or the pressure becomes insufficient, it may not be possible to supply apartments with water at the usual volume.

Heating

S1 VDNG’s heating system operates on a closed-loop heat-transfer fluid circulation principle.

This means that heating will not stop simply because the cold water supply is temporarily unavailable. Provided that the system maintains the necessary pressure and no emergencies occur, heating will continue to operate normally.

During blackouts, the backup generator supplies electricity to the heating pumps and boiler room equipment. This helps keep the building warm even during prolonged power outages.

Lighting and Security Systems

The following systems also continue to operate normally during power outages:

• Lighting in shared areas;
• Access control system;
• Fire safety system;
• Video surveillance;
• Building technical equipment.

Coworking Space and Working During a Blackout

The S1 VDNG coworking space on the ground floor also remains operational.

The space has power outlets where residents can charge their phones and laptops, use other essential devices, and continue working.

Wi-Fi is also available. Separate internet connection lines, including fiber-optic connectivity, are provided, allowing internet access to remain available during extended power outages.

24/7 Technical Support

S1 Property is responsible for maintaining the operation of S1 VDNG’s engineering systems.

A plumbing and maintenance technician is on duty in the building around the clock, responding promptly to emergencies and equipment malfunctions.

During blackouts, the S1 Property team also ensures that the generator remains operational. This means the backup power system is supported not only by technical infrastructure but also by continuous operational management.

How Long Can the Building Run on Generator Power?

There is no fixed limit on how many hours the backup power system can operate. The main requirement is that the generator can be refueled as needed.

S1 VDNG’s backup power system has already been tested through several blackout seasons.

The experience gained from operating the building informs the development of future projects across the Standard One network. In particular, S1 Obolon and S1 Pozniaky will provide backup power to one electrical outlet in each apartment during power outages.

Energy resilience in a modern residential building depends on a comprehensive combination of engineering solutions and management processes, not just a generator. The coordinated operation of all these systems helps maintain residents’ essential comfort even during prolonged power outages.

This is the approach Standard One implements in its income-generating residential buildings: creating an environment for quality living where professionals take care of everyday comfort.

How S1 VDNG’s Energy Resilience Will Be Strengthened

In October 2026, S1 VDNG was approved for UAH 300,000 in government financial assistance to improve the building’s energy resilience.

The funds will be used to purchase a more powerful generator to replace the existing rented unit.

The upgrade will expand the building’s capabilities. It will allow two passenger elevators to operate in each section instead of one and enable the installation of an automatic transfer system for backup power.

The new generator will also make it possible to keep the lobby air conditioning systems running during the summer. Once purchased, the equipment will become the shared property of the building’s co-owners rather than remaining under a rental arrangement.

As with the existing system, the project is being coordinated by S1 Property, the company responsible for managing income-generating real estate.