Robotic transformation and energy transition in China: A new era of innovation

Abstract

This study aims to examine the effects of energy intensity, green technologies, environmentally friendly exports, and robotization on energy transition in China during the period 2010q1-2019q4. The Energy Transition Index (ETI), which is used as the dependent variable, includes renewable energy components such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and biofuel, making the study a direct contribution to the clean energy literature. In the study, the Carrion-i-Silvestre unit root test and Maki cointegration test were preferred among the econometric tests that take structural breaks into account. DOLS, FMOLS, and CCR estimators were used as long-term estimators. Kernel-Based Regularized Least Squares (KRLS) method and Newey-West Standard Error Regression were used as robustness tests. According to the findings, It was determined that robotization has a positive effect on energy transition. In addition to this finding, it was observed that energy intensity has a negative effect on energy transition, while green technologies and environmentally friendly exports have a positive effect. Another finding is that there have been disruptions in the energy transition since 2015. The findings of the study include policy recommendations for the impact of robotization, green technologies, and environmentally friendly exports on energy transition in China.