Powers of executive authorities in the field of energy efficiency

Abstract

Purpose. The article is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of the powers of executive authorities in the sphere of energy efficiency in Ukraine in the context of European integration transformations and martial law. Methods. The study employs the formal-legal method for interpreting current legislation, the system-structural method to define the place of executive authorities in the energy efficiency mechanism, and the comparative-legal method to assess national legislation against European Union standards. Results. It is established that the legal basis for the powers of executive authorities in the field of energy efficiency comprises the Law of Ukraine «On Energy Efficiency» of October 21, 2021 No. 1818-IX, the Law of Ukraine «On Energy Efficiency of Buildings» of June 22, 2017 No. 2118-VIII, and the Law of Ukraine of June 4, 2024 No. 3764-IX «On Amendments to Certain Laws of Ukraine Regarding the Regulation of Powers of Central Executive Authorities in the Field of Energy Efficiency». The system-forming role of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, the special coordination and implementation function of the State Agency on Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving of Ukraine (SAEE), and the powers of sectoral ministries and local state administrations are determined. The influence of Directive (EU) 2023/1791 on energy efficiency and Directive (EU) 2024/1275 on the energy performance of buildings on national legislation is analysed. Conclusions. It is concluded that the current system of powers of executive authorities in the field of energy efficiency requires further improvement in terms of strengthening inter-agency coordination, expanding monitoring and control tools, and enhancing the institutional capacity of relevant authorities at the central and local levels.