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Impact of renewable energy technological innovation on urban low-carbon transition: Taking the Yangtze River Economic Belt as an example

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  • Yin, Shanggang
  • Zhou, Yijing
  • Bai, Caiquan

Abstract

Renewable energy technological innovation (RETI) is crucial for energy transitions and carbon neutrality. Using 2011–2019 panel data from 84 cities in China's Yangtze River Economic Belt, we construct a dual-dimensional (low-carbon development and economic transformation) urban low-carbon transition (LCT) evaluation system. Using exploratory spatial data analysis (ESDA), a panel econometric model, and geographically and temporally weighted regression (GTWR), we reveal the spatial patterns and heterogeneity of RETI-LCT. The following are the key observations: (1) RETI exhibits "polar multinuclear" clustering, whereas LCT evolves from "multilevel multinuclear" to "polar multinuclear". Both show stable high-high clusters in the Yangtze River Delta and dispersed low-low clusters elsewhere. (2) A 1 % increase in RETI enhances LCT by 0.0057 %, with the spatial influence intensity shifting from "east-strong-west-weak" to the reverse pattern. The western/midstream regions experienced an intensity growth >80 %, whereas the eastern areas experienced <40 %. (3) Spatiotemporal heterogeneity reveals path-dependent characteristics: developed regions confront marginal benefit constraints, whereas less-developed areas gain from latecomer advantages. The policy implications emphasize differentiated regional strategies and cross-regional innovation synergies. This study provides methodological and empirical support for spatially optimized carbon governance.

Suggested Citation

  • Yin, Shanggang & Zhou, Yijing & Bai, Caiquan, 2025. "Impact of renewable energy technological innovation on urban low-carbon transition: Taking the Yangtze River Economic Belt as an example," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 333(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:333:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225030749
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.137432
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