How does economic policy uncertainty influence energy policy? The role of financial sector development

It is necessary to warrant the long-term viability of the energy policy for sustainable economic growth. However, certain factors exist that can create a threat to energy policy. In this essence, the current analysis explores the impact of EPU (economic policy uncertainty) and financial sector development on fossil fuel energy, renewable energy (REC), and total energy (EGY). The empirical analysis utilized the CS-ARDL model and focused on a sample comprising G7 economies. The robustness of analysis was examined by employing fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS) technique. The estimated coefficients outline the significant negative impact of all main explanatory variables on fossil fuel energy and total energy and EGY in the long run and a significant negative impact on renewable energy in the short run. The findings further demonstrate the significant positive impact of financial development on fossil fuel energy and total energy and the significant negative relationship between financial development and renewable energy. Particularly, the analysis discloses the moderating role of financial development in the EPU-energy policy nexus. It is advised to policy officials that they should enhance the cooperation between the financial sector and the energy sector for the success of energy policy and for responding to the uncertain economic situation. This study robust the empirical findings of studies exploring the EPU-energy nexus and extends the literature by pointing out the moderating role of FCD. This study highlights the following key points. • This study explores empirical nexus between EPU, financial sector development and energy policy. • High EPU dampens the fossil fuel (FFE) and total energy (EGY) energy consumption. • Financial sector development (FCD) shows a positive relationship with FFE and EGY. • FCD shows a negative relationship with renewable energy consumption (REC). • Particularly, we find the moderating role of FCD in the EPU-energy policy nexus.