Low carbon energy and its role in reducing the energy poverty: A case study of China

Abstract

The global shift towards low-carbon energy systems is accelerating, driven by initiatives like Green Deals that offer significant techno-economic advantages. However, the transformation of energy infrastructure involves complex socio-technical challenges, particularly when integrating principles of energy justice into energy policy. This study addresses these challenges by examining the concept of "just transitions," which aims to align decarbonization efforts with goals of social justice and equality. This research specifically focuses on the issue of energy poverty, defined as the lack of access to adequate energy services, and propose that addressing this issue is essential for equitable energy transitions. Through a theoretical framework, this study analyzes three scenarios of evolving energy infrastructure, illustrating how cross-sectoral strategies can effectively reduce energy poverty while promoting sustainable development. Our findings reveal that prioritizing energy justice not only enhances social welfare but also supports the broader objectives of decarbonization. The research underscores the importance of inclusive energy policies that address both environmental and social dimensions, ensuring that the benefits of low-carbon transitions are equitably distributed. By integrating the insights with contemporary energy policy and socio-equity perspectives, the present study offers thick recommendations to policymakers and points toward directions in which further research is required to bring about an equitable and sustainable energy transition.