China's urban energy system transition towards carbon neutrality: Challenges and experience of Beijing and Suzhou

Urban areas account for more than 70% of total carbon emissions. This proportion for China is higher, approximately 80%, closely related to human activities in urban energy consumption. In this context, the low carbon transition of urban energy systems has become an important strategic goal for China to deal with climate change and seek sustainable development. Based on the comparative analysis of the low-carbon transition of urban energy systems in Beijing and Suzhou, this study examines the effectiveness of decarbonization policies on the evolution of urban energy consumption and carbon emissions; provides methodologies for the low carbon transition of urban energy systems with a macro framework and a comprehensive evaluation system; and reveals the main challenges and analyzes potential solutions from the aspects of technological innovation, policy guidance, and systematic governance. The findings suggest that Beijing should promote terminal electrification and demand-side response, and Suzhou should promote the cleanliness of local generation and external energy. Under the goal of carbon neutrality, urban energy systems can promote green and low-carbon transitions by accelerating the substitution of clean energy in supply systems, promoting electrification of terminal energy consumption, developing digital and refined carbon emission accounting and management, and innovating collaborative governance mechanisms for achieving carbon neutrality.