Innovations in the sustainable development of Ukraine’s gas transmission system under european integration processes

Abstract

The global transformation of the energy sector and the intensification of European integration processes define new approaches to the functioning of gas transmission systems, which must meet the requirements of reliability, environmental sustainability, and innovative resilience. For Ukraine, whose gas transmission infrastructure has traditionally played a key role in ensuring Europe’s energy security, these challenges are exacerbated by declining transit flows, a high degree of network wear, and limited financial resources. It creates the need to shift from the model of a passive transit country to that of an active participant in the European energy space, based on the implementation of innovations. The purpose of this study is to determine the theoretical and methodological foundations and practical directions for the innovative renewal of Ukraine’s gas transmission system in the context of sustainable development. The methodological framework is based on statistical analysis of innovation activity, comparison of European modernization practices, and systematization of approaches to assessing energy resilience. The results of the study confirmed that technological innovations in the form of digital monitoring systems, big data analytics, and energy efficiency algorithms enhance reliability and reduce operating costs; environmental solutions, in particular methane emission reduction and the preparation of infrastructure for hydrogen transportation, align with the requirements of the EU Green Deal; organizational changes through integration into ENTSOG and the harmonization of management standards contribute to transparency and institutional resilience; financial innovations in the form of public–private partnerships, international investments, and diversification of transit routes create the resource base for long-term modernization. Conclusions. Thus, the innovative development of Ukraine’s gas transmission system acts not only as a key factor in strengthening national energy security but also as a strategic vector of integration into the European energy space. Prospects for further research include the development of models for hydrogen adaptation of the Ukraine’s gas transmission system, the assessment of the economic effectiveness of innovative tools, and the analysis of their impact on integration processes within the European energy market.