The Impact of Energy Poverty on the Health Capital of Middle-aged and Elderly Residents in Rural China

Cuiting Yu Tianrun Li ^* Qin Wan

• Southwest Petroleum University, Chengdu, China

Energy poverty is a pressing issue that significantly affects the well-being of vulnerable populations, particularly middle-aged and elderly individuals in rural China. This study examines the impact of energy poverty on health capital using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Applying the Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index (MEPI) and an ordered logit model, the study assesses the health consequences of energy poverty and explores its heterogeneous effects across different groups. The findings reveal that energy poverty has a significant negative impact on health capital, with affected individuals experiencing lower self-rated health levels. This relationship remains robust across different dimensions of health, including physical health, mental health, and daily functioning. The study also finds that education level plays a critical role in mediating the impact of energy poverty, as individuals with lower educational attainment suffer more pronounced health consequences. Additionally, geographic disparities exist, with residents in northern rural areas experiencing more severe health impacts. The policy implications of these findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to alleviate energy poverty. Expanding access to clean energy, improving rural energy infrastructure, and providing financial subsidies for energy expenditures are crucial measures.