Does human capital matter for energy consumption in China? Evidence from 30 Chinese provinces

The impact of human capital on energy consumption is an important economic and environmental issue, especially in a country like China with a strong energy demand and continuously improving education levels. This study uses panel data from 30 provinces in China from 2000 to 2020 to explore the impact of human capital on energy consumption. Empirical research shows that human capital can not only reduce local energy consumption but also reduce energy consumption in surrounding areas, through structural, technological, and knowledge spillover effects. The impact of human capital on energy consumption exhibits a U-shaped curve, decreasing first and then increasing, when economic growth reaches a threshold level. As industrial structure and urbanization develop, the impact of human capital on energy consumption increases. This study inform policy by demonstrating the energy conservation and emission reduction effects of human capital and provide insights for investors and policymakers.

Automated summary

The impact of human capital on energy consumption is explored in this study using panel data from 30 provinces in China from 2000 to 2020. The research shows that human capital can reduce both local and surrounding energy consumption through spillover effects. The impact exhibits a U-shaped curve, decreasing initially and then increasing, as economic growth reaches a threshold level. The study informs policy and provides insights for investors and policymakers by demonstrating the energy conservation effects of human capital.