Create an Energy Company in Russia

Russia is one of the world’s leaders when it comes to the production and distribution of energy. Also, Russia has one of the largest reserves of natural gas which contributes in a large measure to the country’s economy. Foreign investors who want to open company in Russia have decided for the energy sector several options for doing business:

• –          they can explore the gas and oil reserves which represent 60% of Russia’s natural resources;
• –          they can export gas and petroleum;
• –          they ca distribute gas and petroleum.

No matter the type of energy business one intends to set up, they must comply with the Energy Strategy of the Russian Federation to 2050 (approved in April 2025). Our lawyers in Russia can offer more information on the Energy Law.

Registering an energy company in Russia

The first step to set up a business in the energy sector in Russia is to register one of the available types of companies acknowledged by the Civil Code. This implies preparing various documents, among which the memorandum and articles of association of the company, and file them with the Trade Register. Following that, any sector-specific licences must be obtained.

It should be noted that energy companies must conclude grid connection and transmission agreements with the grid companies (mainly the Rosseti group) and will also use the national power grid put at their disposal by the same supplier.

Licenses related to opening an energy business in Russia

Apart from any sector-specific licences, a Russian energy business must also obtain export rights if it exports natural gas: pipeline gas exports are reserved by law to Gazprom (Federal Law No. 117-FZ of 2006) and LNG exports to authorised producers. It should also be taken into account that the employees of energy companies in Russia must have certain qualifications, as well as electrician certificates.

All energy companies in Russia must sign contracts with their clients based on which they will offer their services to private or corporate consumers. With respect to the prices, these must comply with the regulated tariffs set by the Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) and regional tariff authorities.

For full information on how to register a company in the energy industry in Russia, please feel free to contact us. You can also rely on our law firm in Russia for assistance with the company registration procedure.