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Does human capital matter for energy consumption in China?

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  • Salim, Ruhul
  • Yao, Yao
  • Chen, George S.

Abstract

This article investigates the dynamic relationship between human capital and energy consumption using Chinese provincial data over the period 1990–2010. Considering for cross-sectional dependence and parameter heterogeneity across space and over time, we identify a significant and negative human capital–energy consumption relationship in China. Specifically, we find that a 1% increase in human capital reduces energy consumption by a range between 0.18% and 0.45%. Furthermore, this negative relationship can be attributed to stronger accumulation of post-school human capital in eastern China. This finding suggests that energy conservation in China could be achieved by improving post-school human-capital components such as on-the-job training, experience and learning-by-doing.

Suggested Citation

  • Salim, Ruhul & Yao, Yao & Chen, George S., 2017. "Does human capital matter for energy consumption in China?," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 67(C), pages 49-59.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:eneeco:v:67:y:2017:i:c:p:49-59
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eneco.2017.05.016
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Energy consumption; Human capital; Panel data; China;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C33 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Models with Panel Data; Spatio-temporal Models
    • Q43 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Energy - - - Energy and the Macroeconomy
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • O50 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - General

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