Minimizing the threats to economic security in the public utilities system

Abstract

The article deals with the most problematic sectors of public utilities from the standpoint of economic security threats minimization. Attention is drawn to the different approach based on the assessment of threats to economic security to the management of the branches of "electric power industry" and "gas industry" and the branches of "heat supply", "water supply and sanitation".

The analysis of normative legal acts forming the mechanism of ensuring economic security in the system of public utilities is carried out. Following the analysis of the documents and the results of their implementation, it has been justified that the planned measures for the development of the electric power industry and gas industry fully represent a well-designed strategy. At the same time, the planning of heat supply and water supply is at lower level. This is reflected in the high level of accidents in the networks, the low reliability of providing appropriate services.

It is concluded that it is advisable to radically revise the attitude of society to heat and water supply and recognize unproductive losses of water and heat as significant threats to economic security. Practical recommendations consist in a proposal to develop heat and water supply following the example of energy – thoughtfully and systematically. Planning documents should be focused not on maintaining the regulatory level of infrastructure, but on improving customer service. The target setting, following the example of energy, should be reducing the frequency of interruptions in the operation of the system per consumer and accelerating the elimination of the consequences of accidents. It is advisable to create a loss control mechanism in all parts of the technological chain, gradually eliminate cross-subsidization, introduce intelligent accounting systems based on digital technologies, and strengthen cooperation with suppliers.