FEATURES OF LEGAL REGULATION OF LAND USE IN THE ENERGY INDUSTRY

Abstract

This article identifies and analyzes the specific features of the legal regulation of energy lands use under conditions of transformation of the energy sector, growing demand for land resources, and the need to ensure national energy security. Particular attention is paid to the complex and interdisciplinary nature of legal regulation, which encompasses land, energy, urban planning, and environmental legislation. The study emphasizes the dynamic development of legal norms caused by the rapid expansion of renewable and alternative energy, as well as technological innovation and European integration processes.

The paper distinguishes key characteristics of the legal regime of energy lands, noting that such lands function as a spatial and operational basis for the placement of energy infrastructure and are subject to special regulatory requirements, including zoning restrictions, safety standards, and environmental considerations. It is determined that energy facilities may be located on land plots belonging to different land categories, which necessitates flexible legal mechanisms for changing land use purposes and acquiring land rights. The research also highlights the growing importance of alternative legal instruments, such as land servitudes and lease agreements, in the implementation of renewable energy projects.

The author outlines major challenges in the current legal framework, including fragmentation of land legislation, procedural complexity in acquiring land plots, lack of clear criteria for land allocation, and insufficient adaptation to innovative forms of land use, such as agrivoltaics and bioenergy production. Special attention is given to environmental safety requirements, which are integrated into the overall legal mechanism and play a crucial role in the planning, construction, and operation of energy facilities.

It is emphasized that further improvement of legal regulation should focus on liberalizing land use procedures, expanding the range of legal instruments for land acquisition, ensuring a balance between public, environmental, and energy interests, and adapting legislation to modern challenges.