AUTHOR=Zhao Tian , Sun Meilu , Zhang Jiangxiang 

TITLE=Dynamic evolution of innovation efficiency of China’s new energy enterprises

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Energy Research

VOLUME=Volume 13 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/energy-research/articles/10.3389/fenrg.2025.1543420

DOI=10.3389/fenrg.2025.1543420

ISSN=2296-598X

ABSTRACT=IntroductionAnalyzing the dynamic evolution and convergence of innovation efficiency in China’s new energy enterprises is critical for optimizing energy structures and guiding high-quality development under dual-carbon goals. This study examines spatiotemporal patterns and drivers from 2015–2023.MethodsInnovation efficiency was measured via SFA model, differentiating R&D and transformation phases. σ- and β-convergence tracked disparities and catch-up dynamics. A threshold regression model identified nonlinear macroeconomic impacts on convergence, using 2,182 firm-year observations across 30 provinces.Results(1) The innovation efficiency of China’s new energy enterprises is relatively low, with significant spatial and temporal differences but a consistent upward trend. Specifically, the innovation efficiency of China’s new energy enterprises ranges from 0.55 to 0.71 in the R&D phase and from 0.13 to 0.51 in the transformation phase. (2) 1/3 of the new energy enterprises show a high R&D-high transformation mode, while another 1/3 operate under a low R&D-low transformation mode. The σ-convergence of innovation efficiency across provinces is not evident, except for the R&D phase of enterprises in the eastern and western regions, where substantial β-convergence is observed. (3) The threshold model suggests that urbanization construction and economic development play a crucial role in influencing the convergence of innovation efficiency among China’s new energy enterprises.DiscussionPersistent R&D-transformation gaps necessitate region-specific policies. Western China should enhance technology absorption, while central/eastern regions require optimized innovation ecosystems.