Journal of the National Research University Higher School of Economics

The study focuses on problems of decarbonization as a systemic priority for innovative changes in the national economy in times of new global challenges. The research hypothesis confirms dual effects within the triad of innovation – energy efficiency – decarbonization, when every item is affected by two others. We used econometric models to test them on the data from 83 Russian regions from 2016 to 2020. The revealed effects are critical for developing a conceptual framework for adjusting managerial goals to focus on energy efficiency and decarbonization in Russian economy. The paper contains suggestions for Russian regions for incorporating the triad approach in their plans for energy efficiency and decarbonization.  This paper adds value to understanding of relationships within the triad. It also has practical value for practitioners aiming at improving the sustainability of national economies. Importantly, our findings could be used by countries of different levels of economic development and with different combinations of energy sources in achieving goals in decarbonization or carbon neutrality for their economies.