KIEV, August 24. /TASS/. Ukraine will totally shift to using its own gas within four years, Minister of Energy and Coal Industry of Ukraine Igor Nasalik said in an interview aired by the 112 Ukraine TV channel Wednesday.

"Ukraine will no longer import gas within four years," he said, adding that the government has developed a respective program. "Imports will be replaced by additional production using local sources and due to energy efficiency", which will enable the country to exclude gas imports.

According to Nasalik, "Ukraine is wasting 11.5 bln cubic meters of gas for heating air today."

The European Investment Bank has granted a $400 mln loan to Ukraine for enhancing its energy efficiency.

According to the minister, Ukraine’s expenses on European gas supplies are $45 per 1,000 cubic meters bigger than they would be if the country purchased Russian gas.

"Yes, we’re paying more [or gas imports from Europe] as we’re paying for its transit via the Russian territory and the Ukrainian territory and the European territory and back. As of today the price stands at $185 whereas the price for Russian gas would be $140," he said, adding that this is "the price of independence" due to Kiev’s decision to give up cooperation with Russia.