Energy efficiency in China: optimization and comparison between hydropower and thermal power

Abstract Background The energy generation efficiencies of thermal power and hydropower, which are the two main forces electric in China, important factors affecting conservation, emission reduction, green development country’s whole industry. Methods Considering regional differences multiple efficient decision-making units (DMUs), this research uses meta-Frontier super-efficiency slack-based measure (meta-SE-SBM) undesirable model to comprehensively evaluate hydropower China. CO 2 emissions taken as output. Results ranking average meta-efficiency China is Eastern > Central Western all regions show an upward trend. However, these present a downward In 2017, technology gap ratio (TGR) values for efficiency eastern western showed rising trend, while that central region declining TGR continued increase, those decreased. trends or three were not consistent with each other, indicating technological convergence has been achieved. regions, gaps have slightly expanded, but gradually narrowed. output surplus, insufficient. Conclusions government industry managers should fully consider heterogeneity reduce relatively mature, its be controlled. needs further policy support promote improvement it under condition resource endowments.