State control in the energy sector under martial law: administrative and legal aspects

The energy sector occupies a strategically important position in ensuring national security, the stable functioning of the economy, and the vital needs of the population, which becomes particularly critical during armed aggression and the imposition of martial law. The article analyzes the administrative and legal nature of state control in the energy sector, highlighting its key role in protecting critical infrastructure, preventing abuses, and maintaining industry stability. Special attention is paid to the risks of exceeding official powers, the lack of transparency in control measures, and the potential restriction of business entities’ rights under martial law. The transformation of control mechanisms under wartime conditions and the necessary legal safeguards to balance state security and the rights of market participants are examined. The study employs a combination of administrative-legal analysis, comparative law, and a systematic approach to evaluate the effectiveness of regulatory authorities. A detailed analysis of normative legal acts, regulations, and orders governing the activities of state oversight bodies, as well as specific cases of their application in the energy sector during martial law, has been conducted. Particular attention is given to the effectiveness of digital control tools, including electronic registers of inspections, protocols for documenting measures, and monitoring systems for critical infrastructure. The article identifies specific legal challenges in exercising state control, such as insufficiently clear criteria for unscheduled inspections, risks of restricting economic activities, the lack of unified procedures for appealing regulatory decisions, and the need to enhance transparency and accountability. Recommendations for improvement include updating the regulatory framework, implementing electronic monitoring and documentation tools, and strengthening legal guarantees for business entities. The purpose of the study is to determine the specific features of state control in the energy sector under martial law, provide a systematic analysis of legal issues, and formulate practical recommendations to enhance the efficiency and legal certainty of control procedures. The results of the study can be applied to improve state oversight policy, prepare methodological guidance for governmental authorities, and ensure a balance between state security and the rights of business entities in critical economic sectors.