Analysis reveals energy efficiency variability in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, indicating further efforts are needed for effective decarbonization.
In response to the escalating global energy demands, the optimization of energy efficiency has emerged as a linchpin for sustainable development. This study considers the potential of energy conservation and emission reduction in one of the most economically vibrant and resource-intensive regions in China, the Yangtze River Economic Belt, encompassing 11 provinces and cities. The SBM-Undesirable model is used to measure the energy efficiency and analyze the temporal-spatial distribution. Moran’s I is employed to analyze the overall spatial pattern and local regional differences in energy efficiency. The systematic analysis shows that the temporal fluctuation exists in the development of energy efficiency, and the average of the Yangtze River Economic Belt exhibits a development pattern of “downstream > midstream > upstream” from the spatial perspective. The upstream region would require way more effort than others to decarbonize and improve efficiency. At the municipal level, the overall energy efficiency of 11 provinces and cities fails to reach an efficient state, and potential for improvement exists. Moreover, the potential model of energy conservation and emission reduction is constructed. We further explore the pathways of energy efficiency improvement for each region in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, including pathways of “High-Efficiency Type”, “High Emission Reduction Potential”, and “Extensive Development Type”.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Cui et al. (2025) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: