Estimation of a technology matrix from a domestic coefficients matrix and a row of intermediate imports in input-output analysis
This paper suggests several methods of estimating a technology matrix from a domestic transactions matrix, and a row vector of imports into each sector. The performance of the proposed techniques is assessed on the basis of tests using data on a large number of countries, for which both domestic and technology matrices exist. The best method is subsequently used to generate estimates of technology matrices for countries where such information has not previously been available, and as an illustration of a possible application of such estimates, a brief international comparison of production structures is attempted.
On the plausibility of using linear programming to trace important input–output coefficients in the framework of tolerable limits
Recent input–output (IO) literature offers original proposals on using linear programming (LP) to make ‘tolerable limits’ approach suitable for measuring the importance of IO coefficients to an economy. In this paper, I focus on one of such influential proposals presented in Tarancón et al. [(2008). A revision of the tolerable limits approach: searching for the important coefficients. Economic Systems Research, 20, 75–95]. In the theoretical part of this paper, I provide exact analytical solutions to the LP problems formulated in Tarancón et al. The main result proves that the classification of IO coefficients with respect to their importance in the sense of the LP-based indicators of Tarancón et al. does not depend on the benchmark welfare measure of interest. This fact, in turn, severely reduces practical applicability of the discussed LP-based approach to tracing important IO coefficients.
The structure of electricity demand in the Brazilian household sector
Abstract The present structure of residential electricity demand is analysed by electricity consumption classes and end-uses. Nearly 70% of households consume less than 150 kWh/month and are responsible for 35% of total residential demand. Other determinants of electricity-use, such as income and place of residence, are also discussed. It is found that electricity demand is increasing faster than income as the country reaches appliances saturation in upper consumption levels. Water heating and refrigeration account for the major part of residential consumption. Residential conservation efforts have started introducing more efficient lighting equipment and refrigerators, but further work will have to be done to speed up the diffusion of efficient technology at costs that can be paid by consumers.