Bridging the knowledge gap between energy-saving intentions and behaviours of young people in residential buildings

Abstract

The energy-efficient behaviour of occupants in residential buildings is critical to reducing the carbon emissions of buildings. However, it is not clear how to motivate occupants, especially the younger generation, who are considered to be more environmentally concerned than previous generations, to engage in energy-saving behaviour and increase their energy-saving intentions. This study integrates “Personal moral norms” (PMNs) into the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and proposes a new theoretical framework aimed at understanding important internal factors that influence energy-saving behaviour and behavioural intentions in student dormitories. Using partial least squares structural equation modelling, this paper conducts an empirical analysis of 448 questionnaires collected in universities. The results showed that (1) attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, and PMNs were significantly positively correlated with energy-saving intentions. (2) The results verify the validity of the extended TPB model. (3) Students’ energy-saving intentions have indirect mediating effects on attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, PMNs, and energy-saving behaviours. (4) The effects of subjective norms and perceived behavioural control on energy-saving intentions were significantly different by gender. This study suggests directions for research on the energy-saving behaviour of the young generation.