Russian Electric Power Industry Research Articles

On ways to reduce the energy supply costs in Russia

Purpose: is to research of ways to reduce the energy supply costs for Russian consumers.Methods: the analysis of the transformation of the electric power industry was carried out using the tools of tectology and system economic theory.Results: the key reason for the constant increase in the cost of energy supply has been identified, which is the transition from a systematic approach to energy development aimed at increasing general economic efficiency to maximizing the economic performance of independent energy companies. The need to adjust the basic principles laid down in the concept of electric power industry development is substantiated.Conclusions and Relevance: the result of the successful completion of the reform of the Russian electric power industry is a steady influx of significant investments into the industry over the course of decades. But despite the increase in power system capacity, which is outstripping the dynamics of electricity demand, the need for the most expensive peak power sources and energy storage systems is growing, which leads to an increase in electricity prices in addition to the investment component. A positive feedback has been identified that reduces the structural stability of the energy sector, namely: between rising electricity prices; reduction of electricity consumption from the network as a result of the installation of their own generation by some consumers; increasing costs of generating and network companies; more intensive growth in electricity prices and increased motivation to install their own generation for that part of consumers who continue to use grid electricity. The ways are proposed and the solutions are considered aimed at forming new connections between participants in the single technological process of production, transmission and consumption of energy resources, with the aim of reducing the energy supply costs and improving the specific performance indicators of the energy system, and in the future reducing the costs of integrating renewable energy sources into it.

The technological transformation of the Russian energy sector forced by carbon regulation

RELEVANCE of the study lies in the assessment of the impact that various carbon regulation instruments stimulating the achievement of national climate goals have on the development scale of different electricity and heat production technologies in Russia.THE PURPOSE. To consider the change in the optimal technological structure of the electric power industry and district heating in Russia by 2050 assuming the introduction of various carbon regulation instruments in 2030.METHODS. We used the developed at ERI RAS system technological model EPOS for the optimization of the energy technology structure in the Russian energy sector according to the criterion of the minimum total discounted costs for energy supply to the economy until 2050.RESULTS. The article provides an analysis of the scale of changes in installed capacity and electricity production of various types of power plants in the UES of Russia, as well as changes in heat production of different heat supply sources by 2050 for 16 carbon regulation options and business-as-usual scenario. Also it describes the optimal technological structure in the electric power industry and district heating under the conditions of certain administrative, fiscal and economic instruments of climate policy. Carbon regulation options based on the corresponding increases in the installed capacity of power plants in the UES of Russia by 2050 are compared.CONCLUSION. Decarbonization of the electric power industry in Russia will mainly occur by expansion of nuclear energy, heat production – by deployment of electric boilers, taking into account current forecasts of scientific and technological progress. At the same time, for carbon regulation options leading to a greenhouse gas emissions reduction by 30% relative to 2019 level, nuclear power plants could become the new dominant technology in the structure of electricity production instead of gas thermal power plants. The total increase in installed capacity of power plants in the UES of Russia by 2050 may differ by almost seven times for various carbon regulation options. Among the climate policy options considered, emission quotation and carbon taxes have the strongest impact on the technological structure of the electric power industry and district heating in Russia.

Tools for development of the Russian electric power industry in the current realities

Electric power industry is one of the most important sectors of Russian economy that satisfies the needs of the country’s population, companies of various areas of economy in electric and thermal energy and supplies it for the CIS and Non-CIS countries. Due to this, it is significant to study the tools for development of Russian electric energy industry in the current realities, and this is the basis of the article. The purpose of the article is to study the modern tools for development of electric energy industry and work out the recommendations on their improvement. The following aspects are considered as the main tools for development of electric energy industry: interconnection of electric grid resources, carbon neutrality, legislative acts, digital technologies, financial instruments aimed at attracting investment, accumulation systems (portable sources of electricity), electric transport, and green energy. The methodological basis of the research is the analysis of scientific publications and Internet resources, synthesis and generalization of the data acquired. The authors of the study have analyzed the most significant tools that can be used to develop the electric energy industry in the current situation, and worked out the recommendations on improving the effectiveness of their implementation. To provide a full-fledged solution of the tasks set in the article the authors have analyzed the dynamics of the electric energy industry, identified the basic principles of its development, the peculiar features of their implementation, worked out the opportunities and recommendations for their improvement. According to the results of the study it has been suggested to establish a new institute – a specialized international innovation centre of electric energy industry which will ensure attraction of investment, formation of effective cooperation with friendly countries and development of green energy industry. The authors have identified the tools providing for the development of electric energy industry in Russia, worked out recommendations on their improvement, suggested a new institute of financing and development of electric energy industry. The results of the study in hand can be used in the activity of the companies involved in electric energy industry and further research on the topic.

Анализ барьеров развития электроэнергетики России: история вопроса, современное состояние и перспективы

The author's view of the history of the Russian electric power industry is presented, based on facts confirmed in official sources, an analysis of the problems of the development of the electric power industry in the period from the beginning of the XX century to the present. Based on the latest data, an analysis of the dynamics of the Russian electric power industry from 2018 to the present has been carried out, and the main trends in the market under consideration have been identified. The prospects for the development of the industry are considered, taking into account the Federal legislation of the Russian Federation and state plans. Special attention is paid to the impact of the tense geopolitical situation on the Russian electricity market in 2022-2023. The main problems faced by market participants, as well as the actions of the government and companies in response to the changes, are analyzed. Various methods of electricity production are considered and a comparative analysis of different types of power plants is carried out, which includes a description of their positive and negative sides. It is noted that despite the high rates of development from the moment of formation to the present, barriers and challenges have always arisen, which resulted in reforms to change and modernize the approaches of the state to the development of the Russian electric power industry. Today, the electric power industry of the Russian Federation demonstrates stability, however, the potential of its development tools has not been exhausted and requires constant monitoring and updating. Options for measures to improve the efficiency of the industry are proposed. It is concluded that the various proposed measures will help set a new positive vector for the development of the electric power industry in Russia.

Spin doctoring is a technology for overcoming crises in the energy sector

An original view on overcoming the consequences of man-made disasters and others crisis situations in the energy sector is presented with the help of a specific and little-studied spin doctoring technology. The article comprehensively reveals the concept and role of spin doctoring, as an effective PR tool for anti-crisis communication, with the key functions and mechanisms of its application identified. Innovative spin doctoring practices are summarized, as implemented by one of the authors in the Russian electric power industry, nuclear energy and in relation to alternative generation projects in the conditions of agricultural business while working for the state corporations Rostec, Rosatom, VEB.RF, in the Rosseti electric grid holding and the Agropromkomplektatsiya group of companies. New methodological approaches to the theory of spin doctoring and practical recommendations are proposed for energy companies to implement in their crisis management activities. The researchers have provided in-depth analysis of the effectiveness of the use of special spin doctoring techniques by companies of foreign and domestic fuel and energy complex in man-made accidents and catastrophes, as well as in a number of socially significant technological incidents. Both positive and negative aspects of responding to crisis situations are considered. The results obtained in the course of the study can be used in the anti-crisis activities of management bodies and information policy and communications (public relations) departments of energy and related industries.

Human-related drivers of energy-sector companies efficiency

Today, the Russian energy complex faces several important challenges: finding a balance between the reliability and efficiency of using existing energy equipment, and implementing a digital energy project. In the context of solving these problems, in turn, issues of corporate efficiency are considered both in the global and domestic markets. The topic of interaction between humans and artificial intelligence, personnel policy in the field of human capital management, as an asset of a new quality in the context of the digital economy, is becoming relevant. The purpose of the article is to analyze the influence human capital development on the efficiency of Russian electric power industry. The study found that the efficiency of companies is affected by such factors as the share of managers in the personnel structure, the share of employees with higher education, the average salary level and the share of employees under 35 (young professionals).

Didactic potential of educational VR films (on the example of the film “Electric power industry of Russia”)

The introduction of modern video technologies into pedagogical practice is one of the ways to increase students’ motivation to learn about the world. The article describes in detail the advantages, methodological purpose, and didactic potential of educational VR films on the example of the film in 360° format “Electric power industry of Russia”, created by a team of employees of The Academy of Public Policy Implementation and Professional Development of Educators of the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation (The Academy of Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation) for free use in Russian educational organizations.The methodology of the study of educational VR films didactic potential presented in the article is based on the activity approach to learning, the principles of systematicity, and interdisciplinarity. The activity approach in the use of VR film is provided by the maximum effect of presence, which is experienced by the viewer, and independence in the choice of the subject of attention. The work of an active and proactive student is complemented by the activity of a teacher who can guide the student and choose objects from an educational VR film to set learning objectives, and formulate questions and tasks. The principles of systematicity and interdisciplinarity are provided by educational content created on the basis of the integration of knowledge from different subject areas, which allows teachers to use the didactic potential of the VR film in different disciplines and age groups.The proposed methodological solutions for the use of VR film are of practical value for the educational process in a modern school: they contribute to the formation of a holistic view of students about the achievements of Russian science and modern professions (in particular, in the electric power industry), the education of patriotism and pride in the Fatherland, the development of skills of independence and self-control in learning activities.The authors see the development of the project as one of the strategic directions in the field of digital transformation of education, aimed at improving the quality of education of modern schoolchildren.

Innovative mechanisms for designing the system of public administration of the industry

Subject. This article discusses the development of wind energy in Russia. Objectives. The article aims to identify a set of key management objects and develop a process model for the functioning of the State management system of the electric power industry. Methods. For the study, we used a systems analysis. Results. Based on the analysis of the regulatory legal acts governing the development of the electric power industry in Russia, the article designs a single control loop for the industry. It finds that the problems of the existing system of governance lie in the fragmentation and disparity of its elements with each other. For the received projects of the federal system of public administration in the energy sector, the article offers complete lists of elements that eliminate the identified problems. Conclusions. The results of the study can be taken into account when developing projects for the use of renewable energy sources in Russia.

ANALYSIS OF THE DYNAMICS OF THE INTEGRAL RATING OF RUSSIAN COMPANIES ACCORDING TO A TWO-STAGE PROCEDURE, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE RISK

The article is devoted to the development and justification of a multi–stage system of ranking and indexing of leading companies of the most important energy production sectors of the Russian economy - electric power industry and the oil and gas industry. The authors use a financial analytics apparatus based on regular financial (accounting) statements of companies according to accepted forms, a balance sheet and a report on financial results are applied. The authors developed and tested a methodology for sub–indexing important indicators of financial statements: total assets, capital structure - borrowed and own funds, net profit. The author's methodology allows for an express analysis of important indicators of companies' performance and to build an integral rating. The authors performed a comparative analysis of the rating of the leading companies in the oil and gas and electric power industry of Russia for several periods and obtained results that will allow making decisions that contribute to the stable development of companies for many years.

Empirical analysis of the Russian power industry's transition to sustainability

Solutions to sustainability challenges often focus on low-carbon energy transition. This paper highlights the Russian electric power industry's barriers to and drivers for achieving zero emissions by 2060. The methods used include policy analysis and an econometric analysis of variables that affect and are affected by per capita electricity consumption in 1990–2021. The results show that while renewables lower overall electricity use, economic growth, financial development, and CO2 emissions increase use. A bidirectional causality exists from trade openness and CO2 emissions to electricity consumption. A sustainable energy transition framework is proposed based on consolidating selected policy tools.

НЕОБХОДИМОСТЬ ИЗМЕНЕНИЙ ОРГАНИЗАЦИИ РЫНКА ЭЛЕКТРОЭНЕРГИИ РОССИИ, ИСХОДЯ ИЗ ОПЫТА ЗАРУБЕЖНЫХ СТРАН

The results of the reform of the electric power industry in Russia, based on the British model, are considered. Its shortcomings are shown. It is proposed to strengthen state regulation due to external challenges for Russia. The experience of Iran's energy industry, which has been under sanctions pressure for many years, is given

Sustainable development of Russian energy companies: ESG principles

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Optimization of information flows and development of a predictive model for organizing the information space in digital energy

The application of modern information technologies in the electric power industry of the national economy of Russia is considered. The main digital technologies with the maximum potential for use in the electric power industry are given. The stages of the digital flows organization are determined for the development of a model for organizing the information space in the digital energy. The main indicators of the digitalization introduction in the energy sector, as well as factors hindering the process of digitalization of the electric power industry in Russia, are determined. A model for organizing the information space in the digital energy sector of Russia for the medium and long term is developed. Keywords energy, digitalization, data optimization, information flow, big data, artificial intelligence, renewable energy sources

Complex contracts in industrial construction–instrument for sustainable territorial development

The main volume of generation in the Russian electric power industry is provided by thermal power plants, causing the most extensive damage to the environment. The growing problems in ensuring environmental safety and the urgent need to reduce the harm to nature and public health must be addressed within the framework of the construction of new and reconstruction of existing facilities in the implementation of state programs to ensure sustainable development of territories. Organizational and managerial aspects of the application and improvement of mechanisms for the implementation of eco-innovations in the framework of industrial construction should be considered in the context of organizational and contractual modeling of the interaction of milestones of participants in investment and construction activities. The use of costly evaluation methods to confirm the results of the development and implementation of eco-innovations is a promising direction in using of complex contracts and their evaluation in the industrial construction of electric power facilities, taking into account their innovative nature.

БОЛЬШИЕ ДАННЫЕ (BIG DATA) В ОБЛАСТИ ЭЛЕКТРОЭНЕРГЕТИКИ

The prospects of using big data technology in the field of electric power industry in Russia and what barriers need to be overcome in order to successfully use them are considered

Strategic Workforce Development of the Staffing in the Russian Federation

The article analyzes the current state of the electric power industry of the Russian Federation, identifies priority areas for its development in the context of the availability of modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence, digital twins, and a virtual reality system. The possibility of replacing human labor resources by electric power with artificial intelligence is considered in the context of the priority policy of using the best available technologies with minimal harm to the environment. The key directions of the strategic development of the labor resources of the electric power industry in Russia are studied, taking into account the specifics of the region, as well as the features of the development of the industry. The fundamental principles of the strategic development of labor resources are analyzed, taking into account the characteristics of the economic sector, and the possibility of applying the strategizing methodology proposed by Doctor of Economics, Professor, foreign member of the Russian Academy of Sciences V. L. Kvint is considered. The problematic aspects of labor efficiency in the electric power industry, including those related to cybersecurity threats in modern conditions, are highlighted, and practical cases of solving these problems by government agencies and various business entities are analyzed. Ways are proposed to overcome difficulties, taking into account the costs inherent in each of the options, in order to increase the performance of enterprises in the electric power industry and their further improvement.

Assessment of CHINA'S contribution to the development of the russian electric power industry: from planned to implemented projects

Modern energy cooperation between Russia and China is mutually beneficial and complementary: China invests in the implementation of Russian energy projects, and Russia, in turn, supplies its energy resources to China, meeting the needs of both sides. This article assesses China's contribution to the development of the Russian electric power industry. The assessment is carried out on the basis of careful examination of upcoming and already implemented projects of China's investment cooperation in Russia in the field of renewable energy, including solar, wind, and hydropower, as well as in the field of thermal and nuclear energy. At the same time attention is paid to the volume of investment in specific projects, and the degree of participation in the equity holding. Based on the results of the assessment, a conclusion is made about the high interest of China in the implementation of electric power projects in Russia. China especially counts on mutual support for cooperation in the field of renewable energy, namely in the sector of construction of solar, wind and hydropower plants, in order to solve the climate issue. At the same time China does not deny the importance of developing relations in the field of oil and gas.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION STRATEGY: ASSESSMENT OF DIGITAL MATURITY OF THE RUSSIAN ELECTRIC POWER INDUSTRY

Based on the analysis of domestic and foreign experience of digital transformation and the conducted expert survey, the authors conclude that Russia, in comparison with other countries, does not have a leading position in the implementation of digital technologies. At the same time, the electric power industry being the basic sector of the economy which is responsible for its safe and sustainable development, in terms of digitalization is on the sidelines, yielding to retail, the banking industry, telecommunications and the manufacturing industry. At the same time, digitalisation is a promising direction and can have a significant positive impact on the electric power industry. The purpose of the study is to assess the current level of digital maturity of the electric power industry in Russia, identify the main barriers to digital transformation and develop proposals in order to overcome them.The article uses generalisation, comparative analysis, analyses empirical data of digitalisation in Russia and abroad, conducts a survey of experts in the electric power industry about its digital maturity.

Corporate governance in generating companies of the Russian electric power industry in the context of ESG agenda

To address the issues of investment appeal in the Russian electric power industry, this study analyzes the dynamics of corporate governance, including permanent redistribution of property and compliance with the Russian Corporate Governance Code, in wholesale and territorial-generating companies. The increasing concentration of property in the hands of the state and its implications for investors are also noted. This study reveals the violations of essential principles, and the substantial differences in corporate governance practices, in the best- and worst-performing companies. Additional standards for better corporate governance practices to benefit the investors in the context of the current Environmental, Social, and corporate Governance (ESG) agenda are proposed. This study provides a new insight at the development of corporate governance in Russian power generating companies through property redistribution and compliance with corporate governance principles.

Scales and Consequences of Deep Decarbonization of the Russian Electric Power Industry

—The article considers possible scales of changes in Russia’s Unified Energy System (UES) generation capacity structure and the associated costs necessary for adapting the electric power industry to various, in terms of stringency, requirements for reducing carbon emissions and decreasing the electricity production carbon intensity in 2040–2050. To this end, production and economic indicators are predicted for the so-called “boundary” industry’s development scenarios, which differ essentially in the scales of such changes, and provide different contributions in decarbonization of the country’s economy. One of the scenarios was drawn up based on the assumption that the existing trends and rates of changes in the technological structure would remain the same, with which a stable level of electricity price and amount of СО2 emissions will be reached by 2050. The second scenario implies that a transition will be made after 2030 to more intensive changes due to increasing the number and capacity of carbon-free power plants, improving the energy efficiency of thermal power plants (TPPs), and substituting their use of coal. Taken in combination, these measures will make it possible to reduce the СО2 emissions from power plants by almost 40% by 2050. Two electric power industry development scenarios are compared with respect to the following indicators: installed capacity and electricity production, and their mix (share distribution) by power plant types, necessary amounts of commissioning the capacities of thermal and carbon-free power plants and the required capital investments, demand for fuel, financial requirements of the electric power industry, and electricity price variation dynamics. The capital intensity of reducing the СО2 emissions and electricity production carbon intensity is estimated, and the scales of unavoidable growth in the price of electricity for its consumers in Russia are shown.