THEORETICAL FOUNDATIONS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MECHANISM FOR MANAGING THE ENERGY SECURITY OF AGRICULTURAL ENTERPRISES

Abstract

This article examines the theoretical foundations for developing a mechanism for managing the energy security of agricultural enterprises in the context of martial law, rising energy risks and the intensification of alternative energy development. It summarises academic approaches to interpreting the concept of ‘energy security’ and establishes that this category encompasses economic, organisational, legal, technical and environmental aspects of ensuring the stable operation of economic entities. The role of energy security within the economic security system of an agricultural enterprise has been examined, and its impact on production continuity, financial and economic stability, innovative development, competitiveness and adaptation to crisis conditions has been identified. The analysis carried out has demonstrated the growing role of the agricultural sector in shaping Ukraine’s export potential, which necessitates an increase in the level of energy resilience of agricultural enterprises. The principles and functions of establishing an energy security management mechanism are substantiated; key among these are the diversification of energy supply sources, energy independence, self-sufficiency in energy resources, energy efficiency, integrated management and a focus on sustainable development. The key components of the mechanism for managing the energy security of agricultural enterprises have been identified. A mechanism for managing the energy security of agricultural enterprises has been proposed, based on the diversification of energy supply sources, the development of alternative energy, the construction of inhouse generation capacity, the optimisation of electricity costs, the attraction of state and international funding, and the implementation of modern energy management tools. It has been established that the implementation of the proposed mechanism will contribute to enhancing the energy independence of agricultural enterprises, reducing their production costs and ensuring the sustainable development of Ukraine’s agricultural sector.