<p>This study investigates the impact mechanism of green innovation (GI) spatial association on the spatial convergence of urban energy efficiency (EE) in China, focusing on panel data of 274 prefecture-level cities from 2012 to 2022. Based on a modified gravity model, we construct a green innovation spatial association network and employ social network analysis to reveal the structural characteristics of the network. Subsequently, we incorporate the network into an extended <i>β</i>-convergence model to examine the convergence patterns of urban EE under the influence of spatial innovation associations. This study combines spatial network analysis with convergence models to provide new insights into the role of green innovation in promoting energy efficiency convergence. Empirical results show that: (1) despite nationwide improvements in both EE and GI, significant regional disparities remain, with eastern cities outperforming central and western regions. (2) The spatial association network of green innovation has become increasingly dense and stable, indicating a significant enhancement in the agglomeration of innovation resources. (3) Urban EE in China exhibits a significant convergence trend. The spatial association of GI plays a facilitating role in accelerating EE convergence, transcending geographical proximity, fostering stronger regional synergy.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>