The problem of creating a competent depreciation policy is of particular relevance due to the condition of the modern Russian economy, which is in urgent need of the innovation potential development, as well as in the conditions when the dynamics and efficiency of investments in the country and the investment activity of enterprises largely depend on the expansion of internal savings and potential. The current state of the facilities and equipment in the country (basic production assets) is analyzed in this article, along with the dynamics of investments in fixed assets in the GDP reproduction and the structure of sources of their financing. The specifics and advantages of depreciation charges as a source of investments in fixed capital for its modernization are disclosed. This enabled the authors to identify the investment potential of depreciation and to develop a forecast in order to identify the extent of the impact of the depreciation growth on investments in fixed capital in the medium term. The proposals aimed at restoring the reproductive function of depreciation are developed. The theoretical and practical significance of the article lies with justification of the need to restore the reproductive function of depreciation, increase the role of depreciation in investments in fixed capital, and competent implementation and arrangement of the state control over the accrual and use of depreciation in order to develop the innovative potential of industrial enterprises and the economy as a whole.