Dynamic input-output analysis for energy metabolism system in the Province of Guangdong, China

The development of human society is inseparable from energy. The exploration of urban energy metabolism plays an essential role in improving sustainable development. Combing input-output analysis with ecological network analysis help academics to shed light into the complicated system interactions and interior energy flows. In this study, using Guangdong as a case study, the Energy Ecological Network model is developed to account for the intensity of the embodied energy consumption using monetary input-output tables from 2000, 2002, 2005, 2007, 2010, and 2012. Sectors and energy flows are treated as nodes and paths to compile the corresponding physical input-output tables, which can facilitate a more comprehensive and balanced understanding of urban energy consumption by integrating various accounting perspectives. In detail, network control analysis is extended to reveal inter relationships and relative contribution rate of each sector. Network utility analysis gives an overall consideration of the dynamic changes in energy metabolism relations from multiple perspective. Furthermore, the modified robustness method penetrates into how each sector affects the stability of the system. The results show that the energy metabolic level in Guangdong is relatively low and indirect flows are the key to improving the system efficiency. The advanced manufacturing (AM) sector relied on other sectors in energy trade and have limited reciprocal relationships in the study period. Therefore, it is urgent to adjust the external structure and internal circulation of AM sector. The comprehensive dynamic analysis will give a scientific support to guide the development of energy reform in an attempt to promoting healthier development of energy metabolism system.