In the heart of Ukraine, a digital revolution is underway, one that promises to reshape the landscape of public administration and, by extension, the energy sector. Victoria Savitska, a researcher from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, has been at the forefront of this transformation, exploring how digitalisation can accelerate Ukraine’s integration into the European Union and enhance the efficiency of public services.
Savitska’s work, recently published in the Baltic Journal of Economic Studies, delves into the intricacies of digital transformation in public administration. She highlights the strategic importance of digitalisation in streamlining government processes, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and fostering transparency. “Digitalisation is not just about adopting new technologies,” Savitska explains. “It’s about creating a more responsive, efficient, and trustworthy public administration system.”
The energy sector, with its complex regulatory environment and critical infrastructure, stands to gain significantly from these developments. Digital tools such as open data, electronic platforms, and analytical systems can enhance the management of energy resources, improve grid efficiency, and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. Moreover, the use of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data can revolutionize energy forecasting, analysis, and management, making the sector more resilient and adaptive to modern challenges.
One of the key initiatives driving this digital transformation is the Digital Agenda of Ukraine 2020. This program, aligned with the European Union’s Digital Agenda, outlines a roadmap for the digitalisation of public administration and the Ukrainian economy. Savitska emphasizes the importance of harmonizing digital standards with European ones, which will facilitate Ukraine’s integration into the EU’s digital single market. This alignment is crucial for the energy sector, as it will enable seamless cross-border energy trading and cooperation.
The introduction of the Unified Portal of Public Services “Diia” and the portal “Diia.Business” are significant steps in this direction. These platforms offer a range of services, from state registration of civil status acts to electronic driver’s licenses and e-prescriptions. For the energy sector, similar digital platforms can streamline regulatory processes, improve customer service, and enhance the overall efficiency of energy management.
Savitska’s research also underscores the importance of cybersecurity in the digitalisation process. As public administration and the energy sector become increasingly digital, protecting citizens’ data and state information systems from cyber threats becomes paramount. This focus on cybersecurity will be crucial in building public trust and ensuring the smooth operation of digital services.
The implications of Savitska’s work extend beyond Ukraine, offering valuable insights for other countries undergoing digital transformation. The energy sector, in particular, can benefit from the lessons learned in Ukraine, as it navigates the complexities of digitalisation and integration into the global digital economy.
As Ukraine continues to make strides in digitalising its public administration, the energy sector is poised to reap the benefits. From improved grid management to enhanced customer service, the digital transformation promises to make the energy sector more efficient, resilient, and responsive to the needs of its customers. Savitska’s research, published in the Baltic Journal of Economic Studies, provides a roadmap for this transformation, highlighting the strategic importance of digitalisation in shaping the future of public administration and the energy sector.
