Reforming Ukraine's energy regulator, NEURC, is a prerequisite for the continued development of the energy sector and for the country's progress towards EU membership.
As NEURC assumes increasingly complex responsibilities under the EU electricity acquis, the legal framework governing its operations — including the appointment, rotation and dismissal of its Chair and Commissioners — needs to keep pace.
The legislative process is now moving forward. Two draft laws on NEURC's independence and governance are before the Verkhovna Rada. On 9 September, the Energy Committee of the Parliament recommended that both be included on the parliamentary agenda and that Draft Law No. 14282 be adopted as a basis at first reading, with further development ahead of the second reading. The draft laws are also due to be considered by the Anti-Corruption Policy Committee of the Parliament on 15 September.
This makes the question of what the reform should ultimately deliver particularly timely. Strengthening NEURC's independence, transparency and institutional capacity is essential for Ukraine's EU integration, investor confidence and the effective functioning of its energy market.
In this OpEd, Susanne Nies and Olga Bondarenko reflect on the key principles that should guide the next stage of NEURC reform.
Read the full text (available in Ukrainian):