Collaboration network, technology network and technological development: a patent analysis in the Chinese green technological field of energy saving

Purpose This paper aims to forecast the future development of UIC technology according to the changes of IPC in different time periods. The findings also provide a theoretical basis for the UIC policymakers of energy-saving environmental protection industry. Design/methodology/approach The present study will take energy-saving technology as an example, through using a two-mode network analysis method to build the four-stage IPC code UIC innovation-technology network, researching UIC innovation network applicant heterogeneity, UIC technology network and technology relevance. Findings Through the establishment of UIC innovation-technology two-mode network, namely, applicant node CN and IPC node TN, this paper analyzes the important applicants, focal technologies, correlation of focal technologies and the development trends of energy saving technology in the future by using the related theories and methods of two-mode network. Originality/value At present, only about 11% of energy-saving enterprises in China have R&D activities. The government needs to implement top-level design, improve industrial policies, strengthen investment in technology R&D and build a platform for technological innovation in energy-saving industries to support the R&D of common and key technologies in energy-saving industries.