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Can household transitions to clean energy reduce health costs for middle-aged and older adults? Evidence from rural China

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  • Li, Zixiao
  • Yang, Ruihua

Abstract

The serious issue of indoor air pollution caused by traditional energy combustion in rural areas is particularly hazardous to the health and economic wellbeing of middle-aged and older adults (MOA). Using panel data from 6745 participants over four waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS) from 2011 to 2018, this study explores how household transitions to clean energy (HTCE) can mitigate these health-related challenges for MOA. The findings reveal that HTCE markedly boost both the physical and mental health outcomes among MOA, while cutting down on health costs, including medical expenditures and work absenteeism due to illness. Additionally, the study identifies heterogeneity in the health effects of HTCE, influenced by factors such as agricultural employment, pre-existing health conditions, and regional variations. Further, a mediating mechanism is observed where HTCE impacts health costs by improving health outcomes. More detailed categorization of HTCE is required to explore their complex impacts on health and associated costs. The results underscore the need for policy adjustments to micro-level awareness-raising, tailoring HTCE initiatives to regional needs, and bolstering healthcare support to counteract detrimental effects of indoor air pollution, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for MOA.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Zixiao & Yang, Ruihua, 2025. "Can household transitions to clean energy reduce health costs for middle-aged and older adults? Evidence from rural China," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 314(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:314:y:2025:i:c:s0360544224040477
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2024.134269
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