The transition to a sustainable future requires more than just replacing fossil fuels with renewables; it demands a fundamental shift in how we understand the systemic impact of energy on human civilization. At the International Conference on Sustainable Energy Economy 2026 hosted by Tsinghua University, researcher Tian Yajun from the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology (QIBEBT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), presented a high-level analytical framework known as Extended Energy Big Data (EEBD).

This EEBD approach moves beyond traditional energy statistics to create a multidimensional governance system. By integrating massive datasets, the framework treats energy as the dual infrastructure of society.

First, it functions as a "blood system," in which the volume and velocity of energy flow directly determine a region's economic vitality and survival.

Second, it acts as a "nervous system," where energy price fluctuations and supply shifts trigger complex ripple effects across environmental, social, and ecological sectors.

The core value of Tian's research lies in its ability to reveal the hidden internal laws of these interconnected systems. By quantifying the direct and indirect impacts of energy through the EEBD lens, decision-makers can move from reactive troubleshooting to proactive management.

This data-driven strategy is essential for navigating the complexities of the green transition, ensuring that the move toward low-carbon development also maintains economic stability and social resilience, according to Tian.

(Deng Ying contributed to the story.)