Spatiotemporal Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Renewable Energy Production Development in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China (2014–2021)

Promoting the development of low-carbon renewable energy is crucial for meeting the growing energy demand, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and controlling carbon dioxide emissions. Clarifying the spatiotemporal characteristics of regional renewable energy production and its influencing factors will help optimize the spatial layout of renewable energy production and provide a solid theoretical basis for coordinating the development of all aspects of renewable energy production. Using panel data from 22 districts and counties in Ningxia from 2014 to 2021, this study employed the spatial Gini coefficient, Moran’s I index, standard deviational ellipse, and geographical detector to analyze the spatiotemporal evolution patterns and influencing factors of renewable energy production development in Ningxia. The results indicate that renewable energy production in Ningxia exhibits significant spatial agglomeration and autocorrelation. Temporally, renewable energy production shows a spatial expansion trend characterized by dynamic agglomeration patterns. The coupling degree between renewable energy generation and the spatial distribution of power production is relatively high, with notable regional disparities. Urbanization level, urban population, per capita GDP, and industrial SO₂ emissions have a positive impact on renewable energy production, while energy intensity and environmental regulation show insignificant effects. To further promote the development of renewable energy, Ningxia should strengthen power infrastructure construction at the county level, enhance the radiating and driving effects of high-value areas on surrounding cities and counties, optimize the spatial layout of power facilities based on the agglomeration trajectories of renewable energy production, integrate multiple types of renewable energy to improve overall generation efficiency and system stability, and encourage local enterprises to increase technological and economic investments in renewable energy, thereby advancing sustainable energy transition and achieving high-quality development in resource-based regions.