The Impact of Different Types of Energy Transition Policies in China on Household Energy Poverty and Health Vulnerability

Climate extremes exacerbate household energy poverty, yet the policy impacts of various energy transition strategies remain underexplored. Leveraging a database of longitudinal socioeconomic–energy household-level data from China, we evaluate the micro-level effects of market-based policies—such as China’s energy quota trading—on households’ energy poverty and energy consumption patterns. We also assess the impact and equity outcomes of an inclusive energy subsidy strategy, including the Northern Clean Energy Program in China, on the health vulnerabilities of energy-poor households. Our findings reveal that while the energy quota trading policy has reduced the reliance on traditional energy sources, it has not sufficiently alleviated the economic burden on energy-poor households. In contrast, the Northern Clean Energy Program in China has significantly mitigated both health risks and economic pressures. These insights provide a robust foundation for optimizing climate change mitigation and energy transition strategies, ultimately promoting energy justice and a fair transition.