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Energy and economic consequences of large-scale industrial robot applications in China’s manufacturing industry

Author

Listed:
  • Cui, Qi
  • Yao, ShiWen
  • Meng, Chenyu
  • Zuo, Mahuaqing
  • Liu, Yu

Abstract

The concerns regarding the challenges of large-scale industrial robot applications to energy and environment systems have added uncertainty to this trend. This study utilized a dynamic computable general equilibrium (CGE) model to evaluate the economic and energy consequences of large-scale industrial robot applications in China’s manufacturing industry. This study found that industrial robot applications will substantially enhance the output value of China’s manufacturing sectors by raising their production efficiency. Meanwhile, the most of manufacturing sectors will experience a significant increase in electricity and primary energy consumption, leading to the increased carbon emissions in China. With the decomposition of electricity consumption, the direct electricity consumptions for all manufacturing sectors were positive, whereas the indirect ones were mostly negative. So, trade-offs between economic growth and carbon reduction exist in industrial robot applications. Therefore, a series of carbon reduction measures should be implemented alongside technological advancements to balance economic benefits and ecological costs.

Suggested Citation

  • Cui, Qi & Yao, ShiWen & Meng, Chenyu & Zuo, Mahuaqing & Liu, Yu, 2026. "Energy and economic consequences of large-scale industrial robot applications in China’s manufacturing industry," Structural Change and Economic Dynamics, Elsevier, vol. 77(C), pages 230-247.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:streco:v:77:y:2026:i:c:p:230-247
    DOI: 10.1016/j.strueco.2026.01.012
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