Does Purchasing Energy-Efficient Air Conditioners Reduce Household Electricity Consumption? Evidence From China

Energy efficiency label policy has been implemented worldwide as a means to address the rise in residential carbon emissions resulting from the growing quantity and intensity of air conditioner (AC) usage triggered by climate change. Using data from the China General Social Survey, this study explored whether households that purchased energy-efficient AC (with energy efficiency labels) consumed less electricity and its mechanisms. We find that households purchasing energy-efficient AC consume 17.2% more electricity annually and 21.9% more during the summer compared to those who do not. This effect is particularly pronounced for younger households and those in warmer or hotter regions, but is constrained by older households and those with awareness of energy saving. The reasons are that the purchase of energy-efficient AC changes households’ AC usage behavior under climate change, including increased usage times, lower usage temperatures, and preferred standby settings. The findings above provide useful recommendations for policy formulation in collaboration with energy efficiency labels to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring human welfare under climate change.