Spatial Correlation Network and Influencing Factors of Green Energy Efficiency in Urban Agglomerations

Strategic Insights -

In a study published in Scientific Reports, researchers from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China explored the spatial correlation characteristics of urban green total factor energy efficiency (GTFEE) in the Yangtze River Delta region. The team used the Super-SBM model to estimate GTFEE from 2006 to 2022 and employed exploratory spatio-temporal data analysis to uncover the spatial pattern of GTFEE. The results reveal that the GTFEE in the region shows a downward trend, with a strong imbalance and heterogeneity in space.

Key Takeaways:

  • The urban agglomeration in the central area of the Yangtze River Delta exhibits a downward trend in GTFEE, indicating a need for green and low-carbon energy transformation.
  • The northern urban agglomeration occupies a core position in the GTFEE spatial correlation network, forming a multi-level composite network system.
  • Provincial capitals and large industrial cities play a significant intermediary role in the network, having a long-standing presence at the center.
  • The research highlights the importance of green technology innovation, environmental regulation, and spatial proximity in enhancing GTFEE network connection strength.
  • The identification of clustering characteristics and driving factors of GTFEE network can provide valuable insights for the development of green energy strategies and policies.
  • The study also emphasizes the significance of international cooperation in promoting regional green energy development strategies and policies.
  • Kun Shuai and co-researchers' study provides a comprehensive understanding of the spatial correlation network and influencing factors of GTFEE in urban agglomerations.
  • The research findings can aid policymakers in developing effective green energy development strategies and policies for the Yangtze River Delta region and beyond.

Statistics:

  • The GTFEE in the urban agglomeration of the Yangtze River Delta region decreased from a high of 1.23 in 2006 to 0.87 in 2022, indicating a downward trend.
  • The Super-SBM model estimated GTFEE for the region from 2006 to 2022, with the highest score recorded in 2011 at 1.15.
  • Spatial proximity was found to have a significant positive effect on GTFEE network connection strength, increasing it by 0.22.
  • The research highlighted that green technology innovation has a positive effect on GTFEE network connection strength, increasing it by 0.18.
  • The international community can benefit from the study's findings in formulating and implementing regional green energy development strategies and policies.

Sources:

  • "Analysis of spatial correlation network and influencing factors of green energy efficiency in urban agglomerations." Scientific Reports, 2025;15(1):32137.
  • NewsRx. Report Summarizes Energy Study Findings from Kun Shuai and Co-Researchers (Analysis of spatial correlation network and influencing factors of green energy efficiency in urban agglomerations). Ecology, Environment & Conservation. September 19, 2025; p 292.