Assessing Resource Efficiency in the Russian Fuel and Energy Complex: Sector-Based and Factor-Based Approaches

Abstract

This article explores the development of methodological tools for assessing and managing the resource efficiency of Russia's fuel and energy complex (FEC) in the context of energy transformation, geopolitical instability, and increasing demands for sustainable development. The objective of the study is to develop a comprehensive approach to assessing the resource efficiency of FEC sectors based on the principles of resource conservation, resource security, and balanced development. The methodological basis of the study includes system and factor analysis, a comparative assessment of industry indicators, and forecasting methods. An integrated assessment system is proposed that combines indicators of resource intensity, resource conservation, and resource security. A set of indicators has been developed, including energy intensity, energy losses, return on investment in resource-saving measures, the level of fixed capital renewal, energy self-sufficiency, and the share of renewable energy sources. The developed toolkit was tested using data from key sectors of the Russian fuel and energy complex for 2020–2024, including the oil and gas sector, coal mining, oil refining, electric and thermal power generation, pipeline transportation, and water supply. The study results revealed significant intersectoral differentiation in resource efficiency levels. It was established that the reduction in energy intensity in the extractive and processing industries was largely due to favorable pricing conditions, while in the electric power sector, improvements were primarily due to technological modernization. Industries located in zones of qualitative growth, price masking, and systemic risk were identified. The hypothesis that price factors have a dominant influence on energy intensity dynamics in the fuel and energy complex was confirmed. The developed toolkit can be used to formulate industry strategies for resource conservation, improve energy security, and implement sustainable development principles.