열병합발전의 발전량 비중 결정요인:35개국 자료를 활용한 다국가 분석의 시사점을 중심으로

This study analyzes the factors determining the share of combined heat and power (CHP) in electricity production using panel data from 245 cases across 35 countries over seven years (2009, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2021), and draws relevant implications. The Least Absolute Deviations (LAD) method was applied to four regression models. The results show that GDP, the share of renewable energy in electricity generation, and the distance from the equator to each country"s capital have a positive relationship with the share of CHP, and are statistically significant at the 5% level. On the other hand, population growth rate, urban population ratio, heating degree days, and Environmental Performance Index (EPI) exhibit a negative relationship and are also statistically significant at the 5% level. Additionally, per capita CO2 emissions show a negative relationship with statistical significance at the 10% level. Generally, as national income levels rise, energy consumption increases, leading to a higher share of CHP. Both renewable energy and CHP are crucial in reducing carbon emissions. CHP, in particular, complements the variability of renewable energy and enhances the reliability of the energy system. Therefore, countries with a higher share of renewable energy tend to have a higher share of CHP. The study also confirms that the share of CHP increases with greater distance from the equator due to the higher demand for thermal energy in winter. While the ultimate goal in combating climate change is to invest in environmentally friendly energy, until technological advancements in renewable energy and national economic conditions are adequately supported, CHP, with its high energy efficiency and decentralized power generation, can serve as a key means to reduce fossil fuel use and address climate change. The findings of this study can be useful in the formulation of future policies on CHP for climate change mitigation.