Performance evaluation of resource-based city transformation: A case study of energy-enriched areas in Shaanxi, Gansu, and Ningxia

Resource-based cities are important bases for resources and energy in China. However, the world and the country's sustainable development goals require them to undergo transformation. The complexity of this transformation poses challenges for these cities. This study aims to evaluate the transformation performance of resource-based cities in Shaanxi, Gansu, and Ningxia. The findings will help understand their capabilities and achievements in transformation and provide guidance for future transformation planning. To evaluate the transformation performance, this study employs the entropy weight Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution method. An index system is constructed, including the industrial diversification and specialization indices. These indices serve as benchmarks for assessing the transformation performance. The period 2010-2019 is considered, and the transformation performance of resource-based cities is evaluated based on different development stages and regions. The results reveal the following insights: (1) Most resource-based cities demonstrate favorable transformation performance. Although variations exist between cities, the gaps are gradually narrowing. (2) Over an extended period, the transformation performance of each city undergoes continuous changes, with high-performing areas shifting. (3) The transformation performance of resource-based cities varies significantly across different development stages. (4) An imbalance exists among the regions where resource-based cities are located, and a diffusion effect can be observed. Accordingly, the following enlightenment and policy suggestions are obtained: (1) exploring targeted management policies for resource-based cities; (2) fostering a dynamic and open transformation environment; (3) promoting the concept of regional cooperation in transformation; (4) improving the business environment; (5) promoting enterprise innovation; (6) establishing and improving a long-term mechanism for sustainable development and a compensation mechanism for resource development; and (7) optimizing the talent training system.