Spatial network characteristics and driving factors of low-carbon technology innovation efficiency in northern China

China's ecological civilization construction has entered a critical period with carbon reduction as the key strategic direction. Exploring the network structure of low-carbon technology innovation efficiency can offer a scientific basis and practical reference for advancing national green and low-carbon development. Taking 131 prefecture-level cities in the northern region as research objects, this paper employs the accelerated genetic algorithm-based projection pursuit model, modified gravity model and social network analysis to explore the spatial network correlation characteristics and influencing factors of low-carbon technology innovation efficiency during 2010–2023. The results show that the low-carbon technology innovation efficiency in the northern region presents a pattern of “the east region > the central region > the northeast region > the west region”, with local dynamic characteristics and unbalanced characteristics co-existing. The overall network density of low-carbon technology innovation efficiency in the northern region presents a pattern of “the east region > the central region > the northeast region > the west region”, with obvious node characteristics. As time passes, the overall network structure of the spatial correlation of low-carbon technology innovation efficiency in the northern region develops toward the trend of density, diversification and robustness. The bidirectional overflow plate is developing rapidly. Beijing, Tianjin, Jinan and Zhengzhou have become important central cities to radiate and drive the development of surrounding areas. The spatial convergence analysis shows that the convergence characteristics and catch-up effect of low-carbon technology innovation efficiency of cities in the northern region are significant. Environmental regulation, reserve of innovative talents, innovation environment and FDI emerge as important factors influencing the formation and development of low-carbon technology innovation efficiency network in the northern region.