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Extreme temperatures and residential electricity reliability in China

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  • Shi, Tie
  • Chen, Hanyi
  • Liu, Yanzhen

Abstract

Climate change is anticipated to influence the electricity reliability through rapidly intensifying extreme weather events. Changes in the frequency and intensity of extreme temperatures can therefore affect the probability of a power outage. This study examines the impact of extreme temperatures on electricity reliability. Our main findings are that: (1) Electricity reliability appears more vulnerable to extreme cold temperatures in the early decades of the 21st century, with a shift toward greater sensitivity to high temperatures in more recent periods. (2) Evidence indicates that extreme heat leads to prolonged and more frequent power outages for rural residents compared to their urban counterparts. The findings offer valuable insights for developing mitigation and adaptation strategies in the electricity sector in response to climate change risks.

Suggested Citation

  • Shi, Tie & Chen, Hanyi & Liu, Yanzhen, 2025. "Extreme temperatures and residential electricity reliability in China," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 96(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:juipol:v:96:y:2025:i:c:s0957178725001195
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jup.2025.102004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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