Abstract
The purpose of this study, which applies the policy cycle framework, is to ascertain why certain renewable energy policy aims being formulated in the former Soviet bloc (Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Russia, Georgia, Armenia, Ukraine, Moldova, and Poland), as well as to review what policy instruments are being used to promote renewable energy technologies. In addition, it reviews how the renewable energy sectors are progressing in the covered countries and determines what their prospects are for the future, bearing in mind the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. With a global move toward a reduction in greenhouses gas emissions these countries are mandated to explore alternative or renewable energy supplies. Thus, command-and-control instruments have been established by a number of regulations and pieces of legislation such as laws on renewable energy development, guaranteed purchase by grid operators, and guaranteed grid interconnection. Market-based instruments have been established by imposing feed-in tariffs and offering tax incentives for renewables projects. As for information policy instruments, investor guides detailing renewable energy projects with corresponding estimates for wind, solar, biomass, and mini-hydro energy potentials are being developed. However, looking at the countries covered in this paper, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Russia might struggle to meet their long-term climate and energy targets. The analysis ultimately highlights policy implications for Soviet bloc countries including the need to enhance national laws on renewable energy projects, to revise feed-in tariff design models, to develop short-, medium-, and long-term renewable reserve funds, and to establish practical guidelines for national and international investors.