Towards a synergistic future: The impact of power sector decarbonization on Sustainable Development Goals in China

Abstract

Power sector decarbonization is critical for climate mitigation and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), yet its comprehensive impacts on SDG synergies and trade-offs, particularly across regions, remain understudied in China. This study couples GCAM-China with a Multi-Regional Input-Output model to assess how different decarbonization pathways influence SDG progress at national and regional levels. Results show that power sector decarbonization significantly improves SDG performance, raising the national index by 6.70 % to 11.31 % by 2060 and driving major gains in SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy). However, it may intensify social inequality and governance challenges, especially in less developed regions. Fossil-energy-rich areas exhibit stronger synergy improvements, while renewable-energy-rich regions face resource-use trade-offs. SDG priorities also vary regionally, but SDG17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and SDG16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) remain consistently central. These findings highlight the urgent need for policymakers to strengthen cross-regional cooperation, support just transitions in vulnerable areas, and integrate ecological safeguards to maximize co-benefits of power sector decarbonization.