Legal regulation of the natural gas market during the period of martial law

Abstract

A wide range of issues dedicated to determining the features, problems, and prospects of legal regulation of relations in the natural gas market in Ukraine under the legal regime of martial law is highlighted. The relevance of the study is determined by the practical and legal complexity of adapting the energy sector to conditions of martial law, which has necessitated the introduction of special state management mechanisms, such as a moratorium on tariff increases, the imposition of special obliga­tions, and changes in the procedures of interaction between market entities. Existing challenges regarding ensuring energy security, infrastructure destruction, and limited resources create risks for stable gas supply and require prompt adjustment of the regulatory framework. Therefore, conducting an analysis of the specifics of legal regulation of the natural gas market in crisis conditions and deter­mining ways to optimize it are becoming especially relevant. The study has practical significance for strengthening the energy sustainability of the state, protecting consumer rights, and forming an effective legal framework that takes into account the balance between market regulation principles and national security interests. This study is based on the hypothesis that, in the conditions of a full-scale war in Ukraine, traditional market mechanisms for regulating the gas industry require significant transformation towards strengthening administra­tive influence, which is a necessary measure to ensure the livelihood of the population and the stability of the economy. To verify and confirm this hypothesis, the author applied a system of general legal and special legal methods. The use of analytical methods, such as deduction, induction, comparison, made it possible to outline the existing legal gaps in the functioning of the natural gas market during a special period. A systemic approach was applied to identify the interconnections between state regulation, the activities of business entities, and social guarantees. The formal and legal method was used as the basis for the analysis of special legislation adopted after the introduction of martial law. Based on the empirical method, the practice of exercising the powers of the regulator and executive authorities under martial law conditions was examined. The forecasting method made it possible to outline the prospects for further market liberalization in the post-war period.