DOES PURCHASING ENERGY-EFFICIENT AIR CONDITIONERS REDUCE HOUSEHOLD ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION? EVIDENCE FROM CHINA.

This article investigates the impact of purchasing air conditioners (AC) with energy efficiency labels (PEEAC) on household electricity consumption in China, a representative developing country facing climate change challenges. Using data from the China General Social Survey, the study finds that households buying energy-efficient ACs consume 17.2% more electricity annually and 21.9% more during summer compared to those without labeled ACs, primarily due to behavioral changes such as longer usage times, lower temperature settings, and increased standby use. The effect is stronger among younger households and those in warmer regions but is mitigated by older households and awareness of stepped electricity pricing. The findings suggest that energy efficiency labeling alone may not reduce electricity consumption and highlight the need for complementary policies, including consumer education and tariff reforms, tailored to regional and demographic differences.