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Can energy transition improve the quality of life for the population?–Empirical analysis of 30 provinces in China

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  • Huang, Qiu
  • Lin, Silu
  • Guo, Yizhuo

Abstract

Considering the adverse consequences of energy poverty and related issues on residents' daily lives and the central role of energy transition (ET) in addressing global energy and climate crises, this study explored the potential impacts of ET on residents' quality of life (QOL). By constructing an index system and applying the entropy weight method, we measured ET and QOL, revealing differences in their current status across 30 provinces (cities) in China. Empirical analyses further elucidated the impact of ET on QOL. The key findings are follows: (1) from 2012 to 2021, both ET and QOL showed general upward trends; (2) ET significantly enhanced QOL (validated by multiple robustness tests); (3) the wide application of clean energy, continuous improvement of air quality, and opening up to the outside world significantly enhanced ET's positive contribution to QOL, while optimization of the industrial structure inhibited this positive effect; and (4) ET's beneficial impact on QOL was more pronounced in regions with high clean-energy consumption levels and economic advancement. Our in-depth analysis confirmed ET's positive effect on enhancing QOL through quantitative evidence. The findings may provide important theoretical and practical insights into low-carbon transitions and the realization of sustainable development goals in China.

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  • Huang, Qiu & Lin, Silu & Guo, Yizhuo, 2024. "Can energy transition improve the quality of life for the population?–Empirical analysis of 30 provinces in China," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 313(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:313:y:2024:i:c:s0360544224037162
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2024.133938
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