Renewable Energy Consumption and Economic Growth in Asia Pacific

Abstract

The problem of climate change is increasingly global and results in environmental damage due to the use of fossil energy in human activities. An increasing population will make energy consumption increase and can make things worse. Therefore, it is necessary to replace old energy with alternative energy that is more environmentally friendly and makes productivity effective and efficient. Renewable energy is pointed out as an alternative energy source that is environmentally friendly and the process is sustainable because it is always available in nature. Renewable energy is expected to increase the country's national income. This study aims to analyze the impact of renewable energy on economic growth in the Asia Pacific region as a whole. By using data from 2000-2015, panel data analysis in this study shows that Renewable Energy Consumption (REC) has a negative and significant relationship to economic growth, while renewable energy and combustible waste (CRW) has a significant and positive effect on economic growth.