Assessing the impact of FDI, CO2 emissions, economic growth, and income inequality on renewable energy consumption in Asia

This study analyzes the influence of foreign direct investment (FDI), economic growth (GDP), income inequality (II), and carbon dioxide emissions (CO2E) on renewable energy consumption (REC) in Asia from 1995 to 2020. This study seeks to elucidate the factors influencing renewable energy consumption in various economic and environmental circumstances across Asia. The study employs advanced econometric techniques, such as panel cointegration, cross-sectional dependency tests, quantile regression, and Dumitrescu-Hurlin causality tests, revealing significant relationships between the variables. The findings indicate that increased GDP and FDI promote REC, but income inequality and CO2 emissions have intricated context-sensitive impacts. This research emphasizes the need for specific policy interventions to promote renewable energy adoption, especially in countries with high inequality and CO2 emissions. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers working towards sustainable energy transition in Asia. • We investigate the impact of economic growth, FDI, income inequality, and CO2 emissions on renewable energy use in Asia. • It uses panel cointegration, quantile regressions, and causality tests for long-term correlations and varied impacts. • A bidirectional correlation is found between renewable energy use and drivers, reinforcing energy transitions. • GDP and FDI influence REC more at lower consumption levels; CO2 emissions have a negative effect at all levels. • The results underline the need for modified region-specific policies, regional collaboration, and integration.