Analysis of the efficiency of subsidizing energy technologies

Abstract

Subject. The article addresses subsidization of energy markets. The underlying causes of the need for subsidies for the development of various energy technologies or end-use sectors, their level, duration, etc. are often a subject of discussion among a limited number of stakeholders. Therefore, estimating the level of open data subsidies is a complex research issue. Furthermore, at present there is a big difference in methodological approaches to determining what constitutes subsidies and how to assess the level of subsidies. Objectives. The aim of the study is a comparative analysis of methodological approaches to the definition and evaluation of energy market subsidies. Methods. The study rests on methods of content analysis, descriptive statistics, and comparative analysis. Results. We employed analytical reviews and databases of the World Energy Agency (IEA) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) as the information base of the study. Based on the data, we estimated the level of subsidization of various energy technologies. Conclusions. The paper presents estimates of the level of subsidies for various energy technologies, i.e. hydrocarbon energy, renewable energy, and nuclear energy.