Quantile and Threshold Effect of Electricity Consumption on Happiness in Central Asia

Abstract

The study for the 1st time examines electricity-happiness nexus in Central Asia over the period 1996-2022 employing Panel methods such as Quantile and threshold regressions. The findings document that the association between electricity and happiness is negative in general. However, the results reveal that economic development stage plays a crucial role in the context of electricity-happiness nexus. More specifically the negative effect of electricity on happiness decreases as economic development grows. Policy implications that focus on developing the economies in a sufficient level to achieve stable electricity supply and transition on renewable energy, should be encouraged consequently the rate of happiness will increase in Central Asian region.

Keywords

• Happiness, Electricity, Economic Development, Central Asia, Quantile, Threshold