The Nexus of Population, GDP Growth, Electricity Generation, Electricity Consumption and Carbon Emissions Output in Malaysia

Abstract

 This study aimed to examines the nexus of population, gross domestic product (GDP) growth, electricity generation, electricity consumption, and carbon emissions output using the time series data. This study employed the time series analysis, Pearson correlation, and regressions analysis to identify the pattern, relationship among variables and determine the significant predictors contributing carbon emissions in Malaysia. The results shown a growing trend in GDP, population, electricity generation, consumption, and emissions output in Malaysia. The correlation analysis presented a positive linear relationship among GDP, population, electricity generation, electricity consumption, and emissions output. The growing trend in population and GDP has significantly resulted in high rate of electricity generation and consumption that leads to greater carbon emissions in Malaysia. The multiple linear regressions suggest that population plays an important role to influence the carbon emissions in power generation sector from 1970 to 2014. We summarized the aspect of generations, consumption, and emissions productions are highly dependent on human aspects and driven by the inhabitants of the country. According to these findings, it can be concluded that electrical power in Malaysia is human-dependent energy system. Therefore, sustainable energy generation and consumption are crucial as renewable energy is generating zero emissions. A more holistic policy and strategy is required to encourage sustainable resources at the same time reducing carbon emissions towards sustainable energy consumption in Malaysia.Keywords: Electricity generation, consumption, emissions, MalaysiaJEL Classifications: Q41; C39DOI: https://doi.org/10.32479/ijeep.8987