EEGLS · Investigating Energy-Environment-Economic Growth Linkage for Sustainability in sub-Saharan Africa

Energy consumption, environment, and economic growth (target variables), exist simultaneously and are inseparable. This means energy access is essential to spurring economic growth and reducing poverty; however, it adversely affects the environment. Besides, there is a negative relationship between environmental degradation and economic growth. Thus, this tension between improving energy access for economic growth and mitigating environmental externality from growth introduced a three-way link model) and their interaction impact on sustainable development is the recent research agenda. However, previous findings examined either one or two-way links (supply side, demand side, or environmental side theories) to explore the relationship between the variables. Most findings overlooked the interaction impact on sustainable development and did not measured the variables in broad or specific indicators, resulting in a gap in the literature (knowledge). Furthermore, the forward and feedback relationships between economic activities and the environment have not been examined. Therefore, this study will investigate target variables linkage and their interaction impacts on the sustainable development of sub-Saharan African countries from 2001 to 2023. The study will employ multi-country secondary panel data analysis collected from international institutions databases. It will analyze the descriptive statistics and basic panel data econometric tests and adopt the abovementioned theories, capital approach, and integrated sustainable development goals (iSDG) framework and employ robust methodology like the simultaneous equation model. It will provide insights into the complex relationship between target variables, inform policymakers on sustainable development strategies, and serve as a basis for further studies. The project will also encourage investment in renewable energy and conservation. The fellowship will enhance research skills, visibility, networking, and VU capacity.