ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the relationship between urbanization – including the associated changes in income and other related variables – and residential and commercial energy demand in China. Using data from international and Chinese sources, the analysis shows that there is a strong positive relationship between urbanization and residential and commercial energy demand, which is consistent with expectations. It further shows that because of the complexities of the urbanization process, this relationship between urbanization and energy extends to the types of energy required, including especially, the cleaner fuels and not simply the totals. These findings have important implications for government policy, urban planning, and for possible commercial opportunities.
