The production efficiency of renewable energy generation and its influencing factors: Evidence from 20 countries

We define renewable energy generation (REG) inputs as the installed capacity of solar energy, wind power, geothermal energy, and bio-fuel production and define electricity from renewable energy as an output indicator. Based on balanced panel data from 2007 to 2016 for 20 countries, we use stochastic frontier analysis to calculate the efficiency of REG and analyze the influencing factors. We find the following results: the efficiency of global REG is improving; increased carbon emissions have not influenced it; the proportion of natural resource rent has a positive effect; increasing urbanization rates have hindered efficiency; and higher per capita income can lead to higher efficiency. Based on these findings, we propose that more attention should be given to the coordination of policies associated with the expansion of installed capacity and the acceleration of REG. Research and development should be increased for energy storage technology to take advantage of regional natural resource endowments. Published by AIP Publishing.