Abstract
This paper aims to analyse: (a) how the attitude towards renewable energy-based heating systems, pro-environmental behaviour and the perceived attributes of technology influence intention to convert residential heating systems from fossil fuels to biofuels, and (b) the moderating role of culture based on Hofstede’s individualism dimension. A total of 425 responses were collected from a panel of internet users from representative countries in three continents (the United States, the United Kingdom and South Africa); the data analysis was carried out using structural equation models in a multigroup analysis. The results showed that attitude towards renewable energy-based heating systems is influenced by environmental variables in the United States and the United Kingdom, and by the perceived attributes of clean residential heating systems in the United States and South Africa. Attitude, in turn, impacts on the intention to convert from fossil fuels to biofuels. In addition, individualism has a moderating effect between these variables and there are intercultural differences in the degree of importance attributed to them. The study concludes the use of these energy systems as drivers of environmentally-sustainable development.
Highlights
Due to the increase in global energy demand, the primary sources used by humankind to satisfy its energy needs are varying [1]
The present study aims to contribute to previous research into the sustainable behaviour of households in different countries, from consumer behaviour perspective based on an empirical analysis that supports a decision-making model for converting to bioenergy-based heating systems; an analysis is included of the effects of certain user perceptions, and how culture moderates these relationships
It can be seen that attitude towards renewable energy-based heating systems (ATT) had a positive impact on in residential heating systems (INT), and differs based on country (H1)
Summary
Due to the increase in global energy demand, the primary sources used by humankind to satisfy its energy needs are varying [1]. The main cause of climate change is the carbon dioxide (CO2 ) released into the atmosphere by the use of petroleum products, natural gas and coal, that is, greenhouse gas emissions [2]. These fossil fuels help meet global energy needs, they have a disastrous effect on the atmosphere, the economy, and society [3]. Sustainable development aims to maintain a balance between current human well-being and the conservation of natural resources and ecosystems; that is, it seeks to meet current energy needs without sacrificing the capacity of future generations [5]
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