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Dynamic analysis and influence mechanism of digital technology diffusion in the energy industry based on the evolutionary game model of complex networks

Author

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  • Jiajun Ning
  • Xiyu Li
  • Yuan Gao

Abstract

Promoting digital technology is a crucial measure through which countries can enhance technological innovation and energy efficiency in the energy industry. The digital transformation of the energy industry is a systematic phenomenon, which involves the interaction and strategic game between power generation enterprises and electricity-selling enterprises. To comprehend the law of digital technology diffusion, which regulates the energy industry, this study, which considers energy enterprises, analyzes the dynamic evolution process pertaining to digital transformation strategy selection based on the evolutionary game model of complex networks. This study highlights the decision-making behavior that is associated with the micro subject's strategy selection. The results indicate the following: (1) The number of energy enterprises adopting the digital transformation strategy continually increases, and the adopting enterprises gradually attain a dominant position. (2) Co-creation benefits that are occasioned by the collaboration that characterizes digital transformation accelerate the diffusion of digital technology in energy enterprises. (3) Due to the learning curve, the cost of digital technology research and development decreases, which accelerates the proliferation of digital technology in energy enterprises. (4) When the government incentive subsidy is high, the diffusion degree of the digital technology exhibited by the energy enterprises becomes higher.

Suggested Citation

  • Jiajun Ning & Xiyu Li & Yuan Gao, 2025. "Dynamic analysis and influence mechanism of digital technology diffusion in the energy industry based on the evolutionary game model of complex networks," Energy & Environment, , vol. 36(7), pages 3355-3375, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:engenv:v:36:y:2025:i:7:p:3355-3375
    DOI: 10.1177/0958305X231217653
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