Comparative economic analysis of technological priorities for low-carbon transformation of electric power industry in Russia and the EU

Abstract

This paper explores the differences in technological priorities for decarbonization of the Russian and the European power sectors up to 2040 and investigates the main drivers of such differences. We used updated cost and performance data to conduct a comparative analysis of technologies based on levelized cost of electricity. Calculation of carbon avoided costs allowed us to found the pool of cost-efficient low-carbon technologies for the Russian power industry as well as the level of carbon prices needed to support their development. Also, we have explained the reasons which cause differences in decarbonization priorities in Russia and Europe. We have also investigated the impact of system requirements (and associated costs) in terms of capacity availability and its operating modes on the competitiveness of renewable energy sources and conventional power plants. Consideration of these requirements and costs improves the quality of power system planning and policy-making processes under the strict limits on greenhouse gas emissions. Based on performed analysis we suggest economically reasonable decarbonization strategy of the Russian power industry as well as the necessary level of carbon prices/taxes for various low- and non-carbon technologies to support their development.