How Does the Digital Economy Improve EnergyEco-Efficiency? Evidence from ProvincialPanel Data in China

As a new driver for promoting energy eco-efficiency, the digital economy has practical significance in ensuring energy security and constructing ecological civilization.This study examines the impact of the digital economy on China's inter-provincial energy eco-efficiency from 2013 to 2020 using slacksbased measures.Firstly, the development of the digital economy significantly improves inter-provincial energy eco-efficiency.This conclusion holds true even after conducting several robustness and endogeneity tests.Secondly, the transition in energy consumption serves as the pathway of influence, especially during its initial stage.Specifically, the digital economy enhances energy eco-efficiency by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and decreasing consumption intensity; however, the promotion effect of renewable energy consumption is not evident between the two.Thirdly, the quality of green technology innovation, rather than the quantity, plays a crucial role in acting as the influence path.Lastly, the analysis of heterogeneities indicates that non-resource-based provinces and central regions benefit from the digital economy's contribution to their overall energy eco-efficiency.