Background. The paper gives a critical overview of macro-level management efforts to increase energy efficiency in Russia in 1995-2013 with special focus on the shift in goals, methods and approaches. We compare the pace and the trend of evolution of Russian ener- gy efficiency policy with world trends and discuss the effects of policy diffusion on interna- tional and regional levels.
Research aim. Using the conceptual framework of an extended energy-efficiency gap, this
study investigates the existing barriers to energy efficiency and suggests the possible solu- tions for improvement of energy policy on regional level.
Method. We gathered the information for evaluation of effectiveness of current energy  policy by empirical research in the form of a mix of medium-scale face-to-face inquiries and  semi-structured interviews.
Reg findings. The findings reveal that the most common barrier is the lack of expertise and competences to identify the inefficiencies, and opportunities to implement energy efficiency measures needs to be overcome first for further improvement of energy efficiency. The convergence of expertise can happen through horizontal interactions on regional level as well as specially organized training programs at the federal level with the participation of international experts.
 

Background. The paper gives a critical overview of macro-level management efforts to increase energy efficiency in Russia in 1995-2013 with special focus on the shift in goals, methods and approaches. We compare the pace and the trend of evolution of Russian ener- gy efficiency policy with world trends and discuss the effects of policy diffusion on interna- tional and regional levels.
Research aim. Using the conceptual framework of an extended energy-efficiency gap, this
study investigates the existing barriers to energy efficiency and suggests the possible solu- tions for improvement of energy policy on regional level.
Method. We gathered the information for evaluation of effectiveness of current energy  policy by empirical research in the form of a mix of medium-scale face-to-face inquiries and  semi-structured interviews.
Reg findings. The findings reveal that the most common barrier is the lack of expertise and competences to identify the inefficiencies, and opportunities to implement energy efficiency measures needs to be overcome first for further improvement of energy efficiency. The convergence of expertise can happen through horizontal interactions on regional level as well as specially organized training programs at the federal level with the participation of international experts.