A study led by Shen Guofeng from Peking University examines the impact of the global shift to clean energy on energy equity. The research, published in Nature Communications, raises concerns that the transition may exacerbate financial burdens on low-income households.
The study reveals that while modern energy sources promise cleaner living conditions, rural communities relying on affordable solid fuels like coal face increased costs when switching to cleaner alternatives. The research utilized nationwide household surveys and advanced data analytics to assess energy consumption and expenditure across various income groups.
Key findings indicate that solid fuels currently account for 42.6% of household energy needs but represent only 9.3% of total energy costs. However, as households transition to clean fuels, the disparities in energy burden increase, with the concentration index rising by 43%. To mitigate this, the study suggests promoting natural gas for cooking and electric heating, which could reduce the concentration index increase to 15.5%.
The researchers advocate for policy measures such as phased clean energy transitions, targeted energy subsidies, and the promotion of high-efficiency stoves to ensure affordability and equity in the energy transition.