Autonomous renewable energy systems in Russia. Critical review of the current situation

Abstract This paper presents the current situation in Russia’s autonomous renewable energy system. The main challenges facing regional authorities and project-implementing companies are described. The current tender procedure detailing main issues resulting in project failure is given. The paper also outlines current interactions between companies and relevant research centers. Special attention is given to issues in renewable energy project appraisal. Ongureny, an autonomous energy system located in Irkutsk Oblast (Eastern Siberia, Russia), is cited as a notable and sad example of all the shortcomings in the present-day autonomous renewable energy sector in Russia. To conclude, the author makes a list of measures intended to rectify this situation and highlights the importance of energy service agreements which remain underdeveloped in the Russian renewable energy sector. This paper aims to present key issues relating to autonomous renewable energy in Russia and suggestions on how to address them.