Unlocking Solar Poverty Alleviation in China with Photovoltaic and Green Hydrogen Synergy

Poverty alleviation through photovoltaic technology in China has encountered significant barriers, notably low economic returns due to regional and market mismatches. This study introduces an innovative Hydrogen-Photovoltaic Coupled Model, integrating green hydrogen production from surplus PV electricity. By evaluating return on investment across 832 impoverished counties under multiple hydrogen market scenarios, the study demonstrates that the H 2 -PV model substantially enhances economic viability. It transforms 36.7% of previously low-return areas into economically viable regions, effectively mitigating electricity curtailment. Furthermore, the H 2 -PV model yields significant spillover benefits in employment and environmental improvements, notably achieving substantial job creation per megawatt installed while managing freshwater resource constraints efficiently. The study emphasizes that integrating renewable energy with green hydrogen not only optimizes economic returns but also strengthens systemic resilience against policy-induced economic and institutional risks. This scalable approach provides a strategic pathway for aligning renewable energy transitions with global poverty alleviation goals.