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Unveiling the impact of the digital economy on the interplay of energy transition, environmental transformation, and renewable energy adoption

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  • Doğan, Buhari
  • Khalfaoui, Rabeh
  • Bergougui, Brahim
  • Ghosh, Sudeshna

Abstract

Energy transition (ET) is considered a key strategy to combat climate change and environmental degradation, making it a critical imperative for all countries. A transition to clean energy is essential for achieving decarbonization goals. Considering the significant role of the digital economy (DE), this study explores the relationship between ET and renewable energy (RE) innovation in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries from 2002 to 2019. The study focuses on four categories of International Patent Classification (IPC) related to solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal energy technologies. Panel quantile-based analysis is employed to assess the impact of ET in the presence of DE on RE innovation. The main findings indicate that (i) innovation in all categories of energy technologies studied plays a pivotal role in assessing ET in BRI economies, (ii) the DE substantially contributes to enhancing ET, and (iii) BRI countries should prioritize increasing innovation in RE, (iv) the study discusses various policy implications tailored for BRI countries accordingly.

Suggested Citation

  • Doğan, Buhari & Khalfaoui, Rabeh & Bergougui, Brahim & Ghosh, Sudeshna, 2025. "Unveiling the impact of the digital economy on the interplay of energy transition, environmental transformation, and renewable energy adoption," Research in International Business and Finance, Elsevier, vol. 76(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:riibaf:v:76:y:2025:i:c:s0275531925000935
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ribaf.2025.102837
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