To construct a modern energy system characterized by the four dimensions of “Clean”

“Low-carbon”

“Safety” and “Efficiency” is an important path for China's energy revolution and energy transformation. The development of a Modern Energy System Index (MESI) and a deep understanding of its characteristics are of great significance in assessing and guiding the China's energy system construction. In this study

a modern energy system framework was framed around the energy chain associating with the above four dimensions

and the spatial and temporal development of China and its provinces over the past 10 years was studied with MESI synthesized from 28 indicators. The results showed that China's MESI has increased from 32.78 in 2010 to 49.37 in 2020

placing it 38th among 76 major economies

which is within the median echelon. The study identified a positive correlation between “Clean”

“Low-carbon” and “Efficiency”

while a negative correlation between “Safety” and the other ones. The relationship analysis of the indicators implies that strengthening the whole chain of non-fossil energy including production

transformation and consumption can improve the negative correlation. The indicators characterizing “Safety” are located at the forefront of the energy chain

signifying that “Safety” is pivotal. Moreover

the promotion of “Low-carbon” has the potential to enhance the “Clean” and “Efficiency” dimensions simultaneously

indicating the importance of green low-carbon development strategy. Spatial analysis reveals distinct regional disparities of MESI: the north

reliant on abundant fossil energy

excels in “Safety” but lags in “Clean” and “Low-carbon”; the southwest leverages hydropower to boost neighboring “Clean” and “Low-carbon” dimensions

except for Guizhou; the developed southeast coastal region excels in “Clean”

“Low-carbon” and “Efficiency

” emerging as the leading energy transition zone. The study concludes that it is essential to develop a modern energy system from the national perspective. First

the energy “Safety” regions should play the role of energy security without wavering; second

the development and utilization of new energy sources should be steadily and vigorously developed and utilized throughout the country year by year; and finally

the developed regions such as “Efficiency” and “Clean” regions should actively transfer technology to “Safety” and “Low-carbon” regions in a systematic manner.