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The Impact of Demographic Transition on Energy Poverty in China: Potential Challenges and Opportunities

DOI: 10.18535/sshj.v9i01.1619· Pages: 6585-6605· Vol. 9, No. 01, (2025)· Published: January 28, 2025
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Abstract

Energy poverty is a serious concern and an influential global determinant of subjective well-being (SWB). This paper seeks to explore the impact of demographic transition on energy poverty. Data for the study was obtained through panel data from 30 provinces of China from 2010 to 2022. The old dependency ratio is selected to address the shift in the total population. The negative population growth is anticipated to increase further and may not be easy to reverse. Demographic shifts also cause the gap to widen and alter the patterns of energy consumption. The energy poverty concept is measured through a multidimensional energy poverty index (MEPI) established on five key indicators: electricity consumption, clean cooking fuel like natural gas, telecommunication, heating, and cooling appliances. A Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimation technique is used to analyze the impact of the old dependency ratio (ODR) on energy poverty and a fixed effects model is performed to confirm the stability of the results. The outcome reveals that ODR and the demographic transition strongly contribute to worsening energy poverty. Effective policy implications regarding regional disparities among the elderly can change these challenges into opportunities and enhance clean energy access and infrastructure development across all regions.

Keywords

Nomadic pastoral Fulaniformal educationcultural valuesNortheast regionPoverty

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Author details
Iqra Mustafa
College of Management, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
✉ Corresponding Author
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