Features of the definition and consequences of the social electricity consumption rationing

This article summarises the experience of rationing household electricity consumption in Russia. Based on an analysis of statistical data, regulatory documents and expert opinions, the contradictions between economic efficiency and social justice are revealed. It is established that the objective and steady growth of household consumption has exacerbated the problem of cross-subsidisation in the electricity sector. To address this issue, social rationing has been chosen, making the tariff level dependent on the volume of consumption, which is supposed to reduce the burden on the commercial sector and ensure the development of the electric grid. Features of the determination of the base ration level and the characteristics of its differentiation are presented, along with their methodological shortcomings. Five stages of practical application of the social ration are highlighted and their impact on the key energy market participants is shown. It has been established that the range boundaries are set by mandate for the entire country without regard for the interests of household consumers, which directly contradicts the principles of energy justice. The scientific novelty of the work lies in its further systematisation of the economic and social issues associated with energy pricing based on principles of equity as an integral part of the concept of sustainable development.