The effectiveness of renewable energy technology under the EKC hypothesis and the impact of fossil and nuclear energy investments on the UK's Ecological Footprint

IF 9 1区工程技术 Q1 ENERGY & FUELS

Energy Pub Date : 2025-03-07 DOI:10.1016/j.energy.2025.135351

Sefa Özbek , Mustafa Naimoğlu

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

This study addresses a critical gap in the literature by analyzing the environmental impact of renewable energy R&D effectiveness alongside other energy-related R&D investments, which has been largely neglected. Focusing on the UK from 1990 to 2022, the research examines the role of R&D in renewable energy, fossil fuels, nuclear energy, and GDP in driving the Ecological Footprint (EF). While previous studies on the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) have rarely incorporated energy-related R&D, this study emphasizes that increasing renewable energy use, relative to R&D effectiveness, is key to understanding its environmental benefits. Using advanced econometric techniques such as Fourier Engle-Granger and Fourier ADL cointegration tests, FMOLS, CCR, and DOLS estimators, the findings reveal that enhanced renewable energy R&D significantly reduces EF, while fossil fuel and nuclear energy R&D investments also contribute to environmental mitigation. Additionally, GDP shows a long-term negative relationship with EF, aligning with the EKC hypothesis, though its short-term effect on environmental quality is limited. By highlighting the underexplored role of energy R&D, this study provides critical insights for policymakers seeking to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.

查看原文本刊更多论文

EKC 假设下可再生能源技术的有效性以及化石能源和核能投资对英国生态足迹的影响

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来源期刊

Energy 工程技术-能源与燃料

CiteScore

15.30

自引率

14.40%

发文量

审稿时长

14.2 weeks

期刊介绍： Energy is a multidisciplinary, international journal that publishes research and analysis in the field of energy engineering. Our aim is to become a leading peer-reviewed platform and a trusted source of information for energy-related topics. The journal covers a range of areas including mechanical engineering, thermal sciences, and energy analysis. We are particularly interested in research on energy modelling, prediction, integrated energy systems, planning, and management. Additionally, we welcome papers on energy conservation, efficiency, biomass and bioenergy, renewable energy, electricity supply and demand, energy storage, buildings, and economic and policy issues. These topics should align with our broader multidisciplinary focus.