Targets and the problem of their implementation in the field of energy saving: reducing the energy intensity of GDP

The article considers the problem of increasing the energy efficiency of the economy, in particular, reducing the energy intensity of GDP. The basic factors determining the dynamics of energy intensity of GDP are analyzed. Possible scenarios of changes in the energy intensity of GDP depending on the level of GDP and domestic primary energy consumption are presented. The problem of achieving the set goals is considered. It is shown that the unattainability of the target (desired) level of energy intensity of GDP in the declared (designated) terms with the specific impact of instruments of a particular economic policy is the result of many factors. It is concluded that the set goals in energy saving were not achieved in the planned time frame, and the possibility of their implementation in the current trends of economic development (even taking into account their revision in the medium term) is not obvious. To reduce the energy intensity of GDP, it is necessary in practice to implement a decoupling strategy: to ensure economic growth without an increase in the use of resources due to their more rational use and application of the best available technologies.