INSTITUTIONAL MECHANISMS TO ENSURE THE EFFICIENCY OF RENEWABLE ENERGY: CURRENT STATE AND PROSPECTS FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The article examines the problem of the insufficiently studied essence, structure, and socio-economic significance of the use of energy from renewable sources (RES). Based on the analysis of a wide range of fundamental and applied scientific works, as well as the experience of developed countries, the author substantiates the relevance of RES development in the context of limited fossil fuel resources, the need to comply with international obligations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (Kyoto Protocol) and ensure energy security. The specific characteristics and types of renewable energy resources are systematized, considering the level of their integration into the economic activity of regional systems. The energy potential of the regions of Ukraine for the introduction of innovative technologies for the use of renewable energy sources is assessed. It is emphasized that the unsatisfactory state of the environment and energy deficit of the regional energy systems of Ukraine necessitate theoretical substantiation and practical implementation of measures aimed at overcoming the problems of energy supply to the population and industry using RES. It is argued that the effective implementation of RES in Ukraine requires the formation of its own national model, which includes the creation of a separate energy sector with effective regulatory instruments for each type of RES, the development of an incentive state policy, which refers to a set of measures and regulations designed to encourage the development and use of renewable energy and the search for sources of financing. Achieving a balance of key technical and economic indicators of traditional and renewable energy is considered possible if the pricing system in traditional energy is reformed, given that price is one of the determining factors in the internalization of global energy markets. Priority areas for the implementation of renewable energy have been identified, including intensification of scientific (fundamental and applied) research, as well as research and development and exploration work; creation of an educational base for training highly qualified specialists in the field of renewable energy; modernization of the existing industrial and professional infrastructure to ensure theoretical and practical activities in the field of renewable energy; simplification of access of renewable energy facilities to the electricity and heat networks of energy companies on the basis of relevant regulatory frameworks.