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The issues discussed were related to RZD (Russian Railways) JSC investment program, long-term innovation projects and current achievements.
During the meeting Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev inquired on innovation development and investments into long-term innovation projects conducted by RZD. Vladimir Yakunin informed Prime Minister, that, despite certain financial stipulations, RZD focuses on raising the operational efficiency, including labor efficiency, traffic control and other things. Mr. Yakunin also noted that one of the focal points is raising the labor efficiency faster than wages. According to him, Russian Railways implement so-called process method as the main management policy, which means that cargo delivery from loading to unloading is viewed as a single process.
It was also noted that 2013 investment program was carried out completely, including the part on innovation financing. According to Presidential Commission provisions, 0,5 percent of all income used to finance R&D. It was also mentioned, that RZD obtained complete source code of mathware and software for track switching management, which is co-developed with Bombardier. RZD is now in process of reaching similar agreements with Siemens.
Regarding energy efficiency, Mr. Yakunin said that for the last five years, power consumption for 1 ton of cargo shows 23 percent drop. He stressed that such attitude is not time-limited campaign but steady process. Also he informed that in 2013 RZD purchased 860 new (e.g., more efficient) locomotives, which is the record number for the moment.
One of the key technology achievements of the year 2013, from Russian Railways Head's point of view, is practical implementation of winter track laying, which significantly balances the load on infrastructure. During summer season, which is more suitable for track works, additional passenger trains add dramatic increase to railway traffic, complicating the maintenance.
Vladimir Yakunin also demonstrated the new mathematical model of investments efficiency calculation, which includes both optimistic and basic scenarios. Also he related the results of certain research, which shows that investments to railway infrastructure bring double profits to society, and with complete synergetic effect, the profit nears 3,5 times. Such rate was noted by market research entities, which awarded RZD with several prestigious prizes last year.
Prime Minister concluded the meeting, saying that in his opinion, basic scenario is much more realistic, but stated that given the opportunities government should increase the investments to railway infrastructure and related innovations.