They are declaring energy independence in the self-proclaimed "Donetsk People's Republic" in eastern Ukraine.<br/> <br />The energy minister of the self proclaimed republic Alexei Granovsky says they won't need help from the rest of Ukraine in the coming winter.<br/> <br />. (SOUNDBITE) (Russian) ENERGY INDUSTRY MINISTER OF SELF-PROCLAIMED DONETSK PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC, ALEXEI GRANOVSKY, SAYING:<br/> <br />"The Donetsk People's Republic is self-sufficient. The amount of electricity that we produce is enough for us."<br/> <br />The Ukrainian energy ministry says 83 out of the country's 150 coal mines are now on separatist controlled territory.<br/> <br />The Ukrainian side says it is ready to buy coal from mines on rebel-controlled lands provided that the money will be used to pay miner's salaries.<br/> <br />It's an offer they want to refuse.<br/> <br />(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) ENERGY INDUSTRY MINISTER OF SELF-PROCLAIMED DONETSK PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC, ALEXEI GRANOVSKY, SAYING:<br/> <br />"This decision is a political one rather than an
