New energy infrastructure and household energy poverty: Insights from ultra-high voltage technology

Energy poverty threatens the health and survival of hundreds of millions of people, particularly in developing countries. Using data from the China Family Panel Studies and focusing on Ultra-High Voltage, this study employs a difference-in-differences methodology to explore the potential of long-distance energy infrastructure to reduce household energy poverty. The results indicate that Ultra-High Voltage significantly reduces the probability of households falling into energy poverty. Its does so by improving household electricity accessibility and stability of supply, promoting household energy transition to electricity, and increasing household income. These effects are especially pronounced in rural areas, among higher-income households, and in regions characterized by unstable grids and high transfer capacity. Moreover, Ultra-High Voltage mitigates energy poverty arising from both heating and cooling demands. Finally, Ultra-High Voltage enhances the poverty-reduction impact of other transregional energy projects and contributes to national energy security. These findings offer guidance for policymakers seeking to deploy Ultra-High Voltage technology in support of sustainable development.