Improving the Energy Efficiency of Russian Buildings

The article presents a long-term projection of the costs and effects associated with the implementation of additional energy efficiency policies in Russian buildings. It is shown that in Russia, buildings account for 38 percent of primary energy consumption, while at the same time representing significant potential for energy conservation. The article considers ten policy scenarios for improving energy efficiency and shows that it is possible to reduce the fossil fuel consumption of buildings by more than half, while doubling their area and size by 2050. Additional benefits are considered, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, employment growth, improved living conditions, and reduced costs for both residents and the public sector. The costs and economic effects of the energy efficiency measures and policies are assessed, and it is shown that Russia’s new growth model must focus on making the economy more efficient, including more energy efficient.