On the Study of Energy Saving and Increasing Energy Efficiency: Foreign and Russian Experience

Elaboration of measures and patterns to increase energy efficiency appears as one of the priority objectives of the world economy and is aimed at solving environmental problems associated with energy consumption and climate changes. The paper deals with the issue of the impact of economic growth and structural changes on the energy intensity of territories. Empirical studies highlight a significant influence of macroeconomic, demographic and political factors on changes in the energy intensity of economies. Russia has significant capacity for improving energy efficiency, primarily in the electricity and housing sectors. The released fossil fuels can be exported, reduce emissions into the atmosphere, and, as a result, improve life quality. A consistent reduction in the consumption of fuel and energy resources due to the transition to a new technological order is demonstrated by electric power industry, manufacturing industry and transport sector. It is noted that for Russia the transition from raw-material economic model to innovative one is a priority for sustainable development. To overcome the causes of low energy efficiency and realize the existing potential, it is necessary to intensify the state policy both at the regional and federal levels. At the same time, saving energy and increasing energy efficiency cannot reduce energy intensity of GDP/GRP without high economic rates. The paper analyses the influence of the gross regional product structure on energy consumption in the Rostov region as well as the characteristics of the economic structure and electricity consumption of the region. It is noted that service sector and high-tech industries development, investment in environmental technologies will allow the Rostov region to move to an energy-efficient model of economic growth.