The evolution of electric technology in the context of China’s low-carbon transformation: a patent analysis

Purpose Owing to increased energy demands, China has become the world’s top CO2 emitter, with electricity generation accounting for majority of emissions. Therefore, Chinese Government aspires achieve a low-carbon transformation electric industry by enhancing its green innovation capacity. However, little attention been paid development technology. Thus, this paper aims uncover spatiotemporal evolution technology in context China’s through patent analysis. Design/methodology/approach Using granted invention data between 2000 and 2021, conducted an exploratory, spatial autocorrelation time-varying difference-in-differences (DID) analysis reveal landscape Findings Exploratory shows that average growth rate is 8.1%, heterogeneity, as there slower north west faster south east. In addition, clustering local areas. Finally, DID provides positive evidence policies improve capacity Research limitations/implications The different effects pilot policy (LCPC) on R&D subjects LCPC’s effectiveness value patented were not revealed. Originality/value This reveals evolutionary characteristics mainland China. results can help clarify how carry out innovative part provide theoretical basis research direction newcomers field.