Nexus between energy poverty and sustainable energy technologies: A roadmap towards environmental sustainability

Abstract

China has endured severe energy crises due to massive population and fast industrialization. Traditional energy sources cannot fulfill the country's current energy requirements. Low–income people are stereotypically portrayed as gathering firewood and relying on dirty energy sources to satisfy their domestic demands. Consequently, people in states with the most significant prevalence of energy poverty have been given a high priority in this study. In the rural areas of Shandong province, structured interviews were conducted with respondents on different energy aspects. Study results indicate that energy poverty in rural regions subjected inhabitants to various challenges, including health risks, time poverty, financial hardship, and others. Consequently, alternate energy sources must be explored and deployed in the country. In this vein, we identify the best renewable energy option for rural China. The findings indicate that solar energy is China's top source of renewable energy in terms of cost, life span, administration, and maintenance expenses. As a step further, the primary barriers that lead to energy poverty are also recognized. The research concludes with policy recommendations to relieve energy poverty in Chinese rural areas.