Inclusivity between internet development and energy conservation in Henan, China

Abstract

The growth of the internet has a significant impact on the development of energy-saving technology, increased energy efficiency, and decreased power intensity. This study applies the spatial econometric model and the panel threshold model to examine the relationship between Internet development, economic growth, and power intensity in Henan Province using data from 18 cities in the province from 2001 to 2018. The findings indicate that the power intensity in Henan Province lowers as Internet usage rises and the industrial structure is optimized. Additionally, Henan Province's urban power density exhibits spatial positive correlation and features of regional aggregation. Finally, Henan Province has experienced a substantial threshold effect as a result of Internet development. The level of Internet development has a non-linear impact on power intensity at various levels of population, per capita GDP, urbanization rate, technological development, and foreign direct investment.