Research on the Impact of Energy Efficiency on Green Development: A Case Study of the Yellow River Basin in China

In order to achieve China’s carbon peaking and neutrality (double carbon) targets advance ecological conservation high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin, it is essential that China reduces its energy intensity increases efficiency. This research developed an evaluation index system for efficiency green Basin based on panel data collected from 64 of prefecture-level cities covering period 2011 2020. Each city’s level was calculated, analyzed together with characteristics spatial pattern progression. The STIRPAT model then used investigate influence mechanism development. final step analysis assess process by which technical innovation influences rise a point view. findings this study indicate that: (1) There marked improvement levels across over 2020, but there are notable disparities among cities, higher found capital lower reaches basin. (2) has had positive impact transition development, factors such as human capital, urbanization levels, upgrading industrial structures contributing significantly, while foreign direct investment limited impact. (3) Technological plays partial role mediating relationship between passes single-threshold test. When technological surpasses threshold value, effect significantly strengthened. indicates improving efficiency, stimulating emerging industries, enhancing capabilities can promote transformative high quality China.