Can FinTech adoption alleviate energy poverty? Evidence from Chinese households*

Addressing household energy poverty is essential for improving quality of life and achieving sustainable development, yet limited evidence exists on the role of FinTech in alleviating it at the household level. This study examines the impact of FinTech adoption on household energy poverty using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and the China Digital Inclusion Financial Index. We find that FinTech adoption significantly reduces energy poverty, with stronger effects observed among households with middle-aged heads, smaller sizes, and higher financial literacy, as well as those located in eastern regions or digitally advanced cities. Mechanism analysis reveals that FinTech alleviates energy poverty by enhancing employment, increasing pension income, optimizing regional industrial structures, enhancing energy efficiency, and narrowing income inequality. These findings provide a new perspective on mitigating household energy poverty through the promotion and effective utilization of FinTech.