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Achieving an efficient, modern, and sustainable energy transition towards carbon neutrality has attracted worldwide attentions. Composite statistical indices are increasingly recognized as valuable tools for policymakers, offering enhanced understanding of the present condition and anticipated direction of energy transition. In this research, we constructed a comprehensive index to track provincial energy transition in China. With this index, we monitored the energy transition progress of 30 provinces in China. The Provincial energy transition index (PETI) scores exhibited considerable heterogeneity across provinces and throughout different time periods, with eastern provinces having the highest scores, and some northwestern and large coal provinces, like Shanxi, having the lowest scores. These findings indicated that provincial energy transition policies should be tailored to the local energy status and economic structures. The paper delineated conclusions and policy implications derived from the study's extensive evaluation. Specifically, effective ways to further improve a region's sustainable energy transition path include advancing the use of clean energy, vigorously promoting power grid construction, and investing in new energy sectors. The implementation of these strategies is expected to reduce energy consumption and carbon intensity, thereby decreasing carbon emissions, then ultimately accelerating the realization of the dual carbon targets. • We present a provincial energy transition index to track regional energy transition process. • There was significant heterogeneity in PETI scores across different provinces. • There were disparities among the performances in the three dimensions of the PETI. • Energy transition policies ought to give precedence to regions that are lagging in their energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emissions trading system (ETS) is a cost-effective way towards achieving the carbon neutrality goal. Based on the gaps in the research on carbon allowance allocation vis-à-vis the carbon neutrality target, this study examines how to allocate carbon allowances equitably and effectively among Chinese provinces. Different from the previous research that mainly considers responsibility, ability, and potential of equity dimensions, this paper proposes a composite indicator allocation approach based on the equity of history, demand, contribution, and guarantee, and it also employs the entropy method and expert survey method to obtain the indicator weight values in different scenarios. Results show that the carbon allowances of some provinces, such as the forest-rich province of Yunnan, vary significantly in five scenarios, but little differences are observed for some provinces, such as the high historical emissions province of Shanxi. More provinces achieve data envelopment analysis efficiency in the preferred scenario. Compared with the objective scenario, the required emission reduction in the preferred gross domestic product (GDP) scenario is 231 million tonnes less, and the emission reduction cost is 190 billion yuan less. It is suggested that the Chinese government should adopt the allocation scheme in preference for the GDP scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]