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Unleashing the Power of Digital Transformation: Boosting Green Total Factor Productivity in China’s Energy Enterprises

Author

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  • Tiantian Ning

    (School of Marxism, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China)

  • Kai-Hua Wang

    (School of Economics, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
    Faculty of Finance, City University of Macau, Macao 999078, China
    Doctoral School of Economics and Business Administration, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, West University of Timisoara, 300223 Timisoara, Romania)

  • Hong-Wen Liu

    (Department of Humanities & Tourism, Rizhao Polytechnic, Rizhao 276800, China)

Abstract

This study examines the influence of digital transformation (DT) on green total factor productivity (GTFP) for A-share-listed energy enterprises from 2013 to 2022. The study findings demonstrate that DT can be advantageous in improving GTFP, and this conclusion remains valid even after performing the endogeneity treatment and the robustness test. The mechanism test suggests that improving green technology innovation and alleviating financing constraints are significant transmission paths. The heterogeneity analysis’ findings show that state-owned enterprises, large-scale enterprises, and new energy enterprises benefit more significantly from DT’s favorable efficacy in improving GTFP. By focusing on energy enterprises, this study expands upon the prior research on digital transformation in the micro field. Moreover, this study reveals the critical path of digital transformation in enhancing GTFP, thus enriching its theoretical connection. GTFP will be enhanced by the joint development of digital facilities by enterprises and the government, as well as using distinct digital strategies.

Suggested Citation

  • Tiantian Ning & Kai-Hua Wang & Hong-Wen Liu, 2025. "Unleashing the Power of Digital Transformation: Boosting Green Total Factor Productivity in China’s Energy Enterprises," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(9), pages 1-19, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:9:p:4113-:d:1648055
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