On September 19, under the framework of the XIII International Investment Forum "Sochi-2014", Oleg Budargin, General Director of Rosseti took part in the round table "The effectiveness of the growth of state monopolies as an internal reserve of growth."

The event was attended by the heads of the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation, JSC "Russian Railways", FSUE "Russian Post", Russian Direct Investment Fund, as well as Russian and foreign analysts and experts in the field of state regulation of Tariffs, Infrastructure, and Energy Efficiency.

During the discussion, it was noted that the growth of the Russian economy has now slowed down. In times of negative economic conditions, various branches of industry do not always show the desired performance results. One of the reserves of growth is to increase the efficiency of natural monopolies. At the same time, as noted in the discussion, it is the state that creates conditions for monopolies.

"State-owned companies today receive increased attention not only from the public but also from regulatory and supervisory bodies. It is important that the requirements and the rules are the same for all market players. No less important is for them to be long term - only in this case, can you achieve a noticeable effect from the change," stated Oleg Budargin.

According to the CEO of Rosseti the group of companies has opportunities for increased efficiency, including through internal resources. However, objectively, regulatory support is necessary.

"The funds spent on ensuring the reliability of the technological connection of new consumers and the cost of connection, including preferential connection, in the investment programs of individual IDGCs reaches up to 50%," said A. Budargin.

Another problem is the various solutions associated with tariffs, which in one district may differ by a factor of up to five - seven. It is also important to think about improving the organizational structure of the electric grid complex. According to the head of Rosseti, the existence at one facility of several legal entities adversely affects management and results in inconvenience for the consumer.

In general, the panellists were in agreement that in today's economic conditions, it is essential to look for new approaches to improve efficiency, change approaches to client interaction, and optimize management structures, as well as to give up non-core activities.