A target-based method for energy saving and carbon emissions reduction in China based on environmental data envelopment analysis

It is an important issue for China’s energy and climate policy to achieve the targeted goals of energy saving and carbon emissions reduction. In this study, we develop a data envelopment analysis‐based framework for energy saving and carbon emissions reduction in China. We first separate the related ${\text{CO}}_2$ emissions into various classifications and propose a framework for customized adjustment of energy saving strategy. Customized targets for the inefficient decision‐making unites (DMUs) are introduced to improve the efficiencies based on energy conservation technology and energy structural adjustment. Step‐by‐step mechanisms of energy saving and carbon emissions reduction are provided for inefficient DMUs. To overcome the difficulties of energy consumption in China, the proposed approach provides a flexible way by making proper energy saving and carbon emissions reduction strategies. Detailed analysis of the regional energy saving and carbon emissions reduction targets in China is illustrated to better verify the proposed approach.