Energy-saving Practices Research Articles

Energy-saving Behavior and Households’ Practices in Prevention of Climate Change

The relevance of the problem of energy-saving behavior and the negative contribution of households to climate change is dictated by the need to reduce the burden on the environment. Based on a meta-analysis of scientific publications, an overview of modern behavioral approaches in this area is provided. Results of a survey of experts in the energy sector are presented. The conclusion is that the energy saving strategy is being implemented due to savings, with increasing dynamics of involvement, and the main barriers in this case are the technical limitations of households and economic investments in energy-efficient equipment. Waste management in households is associated with increased demands of citizens for comfortable infrastructure and the reluctance to create additional time costs. The same can be said about the use of personal transport, here the impediments are the desire to maintain mobility and save time. Key energy-saving strategies include reducing resource use, avoiding unsustainable practices and increasing environmental awareness. Institutional barriers to energy-saving behavior are identified: household infrastructure, which does not allow energy efficiency, lack of environmental culture and insufficient interaction between the authorities and the population. Knowledge about environmental problems and understanding the contribution of anthropogenic influence on climate change do not always guarantee the implementation of pro-environmental energy-saving practices. In-depth work to raise knowledge of environmental problems, introduce incentives, spread values and strengthen motivation is necessary.

WISE-Energy: Wireless Integrated Smart Energy Systems

This paper introduces WISE-Engergy, Wireless Integrated Smart Energi Systems. This system is designed to optimize indoor electricity usage by fostering user awareness of energy-saving practices. Users are reminded to turn off electrical devices when leaving the room through notifications on an Android smartphone application. The research aims to increase public awareness of the importance of energy conservation and to apply technology to achieve higher energy efficiency. The contribution of this research lies in the development of an innovative energy-saving system that can be implemented in various indoor environments to support sustainable energy-saving efforts. The test results show that this system successfully achieves its intended goals. The notifications sent to the last user in the room effectively encouraged them to turn off the lights upon leaving. The WSN communication test between room 1 and room 2 also demonstrated that the system could transmit power data from room 2 to room 1 via the XBee module. System evaluation and testing indicated that SENIOR successfully notified users to turn off electrical devices. This research makes a significant contribution to addressing energy-saving challenges and promoting an energy-saving culture in the community.

Experimental study on internal heat transfer among adjacent rooms for building energy efficiency with housing vacancy consideration

With the expansion of the real estate sector and the rise of tourist resorts, many individuals now own multiple properties, resulting in a substantial number of homes remaining vacant for extended periods or being used seasonally. Despite being unheated, rooms in these vacant properties continue to transfer heat to adjacent heated rooms. While previous research has explored the heat transfer between non-heated and heated rooms based on their relative positioning, few studies have considered the dynamic aspects of this process. To fill this gap, we developed a scaled-down model to replicate real-world conditions and conducted experiments to track the dynamic temperature changes between non-heated and heated rooms in different configurations. The heat transfer mechanism was analyzed, and a theoretical model was constructed to quantify the dynamic heat exchange. This model accounts for variations in both convective and radiative heat transfer between rooms. Initial findings suggest that heat transfer to a non-heated room below a heated space can reach 28 % of the total heat supplied, while heat transfer to an upper adjacent room can account for 16 %. The peak heat transfer is observed after 5–10 h of heating. These results provide valuable insights for optimizing space heating, promoting energy-saving practices, and improving indoor heating efficiency, alongside offering actionable recommendations for behavioral energy conservation.

Toward sustainable energy transition: understanding electricity-use behavior among low-income urban households in Kumasi

ABSTRACT The residential sector is a critical contributor to global energy consumption. In Ghana, it accounts for 47% of the total electricity consumed. However, inadequate knowledge of categories of residential consumers, their profiles, and the implications on their consumption patterns could impede the development of targeted and sustainable interventions. This study examined the behavioral patterns among low-income urban households in Kumasi, using their socio-demographic and housing characteristics, and self-reported values. This is coherent to the current discourse on Ghana’s transition to zero carbon by 2070 given that Kumasi is the fastest-growing city in the country. Using quantitative methods within a transdisciplinary research design, a survey of 285 households was conducted. The findings yielded varied outcomes. Households reported good electricity use behavior (e.g. covering liquids in the refrigerator) and poor behaviors (e.g. not adjusting the power setting of refrigerators to weather conditions). Logistic regression operations showed associations between energy use behavior, the type of housing units and the type of electricity meters. A significant proportion of respondents exhibited pro-environmental behaviors across all nine value domains. The study concludes that low-income households engage in energy-saving practices. We suggest that policy mediation could enhance the effectiveness of behavioral interventions toward electricity use efficiency.

Unveiling the relation between household energy conservation and subjective well-being: Insights from structural equation modeling

Electricity is essential to Pakistan's economy and, it helps to improve the living standards of people. However, the state has long suffered from problems like imbalances in the supply of energy, excessive energy use, and frequent power outages. The present study focused on investigating the relationship between energy-saving behavior, consumption, and subjective well-being in households in urban areas of Punjab, Pakistan. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the research analyzed how different features of electricity use and energy-saving practices affect the quality of life for families in the region. According to research findings, a strong intention to save electricity is also linked to enhanced subjective well-being. When families have an intention toward conserving energy, they feel a more positive change in overall households' subjective well-being while electricity consumption which is measured in terms of electricity bills, negatively affects the household well-being. The current research concludes that some families can experience a financial benefit from lower energy bills, and others would need assistance switching to more environment-friendly energy habits. Governments must adopt price-control mechanisms and electricity subsidies for low-income groups to encourage ethical energy usage and well-being, while also undertaking awareness programs aimed at a varied audience.

The impact of AI on boosting renewable energy utilization and visual power plant efficiency in contemporary construction

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the renewable energy sector has revolutionized the efficiency and utilization of renewable energy sources in contemporary construction, significantly impacting visual power plant operations. AI technologies, including machine learning and predictive analytics, optimize energy production, enhance system performance, and streamline maintenance processes, thereby driving the adoption and efficiency of renewable energy systems. AI-powered predictive maintenance tools analyze vast amounts of data from renewable energy installations, such as solar panels and wind turbines, to predict and prevent equipment failures. This proactive approach reduces downtime and maintenance costs, ensuring continuous and efficient energy generation. Additionally, AI algorithms optimize energy storage and distribution by accurately forecasting energy production and demand. This optimization helps balance supply and demand, reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources and enhancing grid stability. In visual power plants, AI enhances operational efficiency through advanced monitoring and control systems. Real-time data from sensors and IoT devices are processed by AI to provide actionable insights, enabling operators to make informed decisions promptly. AI-driven automation in visual power plants ensures optimal performance by adjusting parameters in real-time, based on environmental conditions and energy demand, thus maximizing energy output. Moreover, AI facilitates the design and construction of smart buildings and infrastructure, integrating renewable energy systems seamlessly. AI-driven energy management systems in buildings analyze consumption patterns, optimize energy use, and promote energy-saving practices, contributing to overall energy efficiency. This integration not only reduces the carbon footprint of construction projects but also aligns with global sustainability goals. The impact of AI on boosting renewable energy utilization and visual power plant efficiency is profound. By leveraging AI technologies, contemporary construction can achieve higher energy efficiency, lower operational costs, and increased sustainability. As AI continues to evolve, its role in the renewable energy sector will likely expand, further enhancing the capabilities of renewable energy systems and paving the way for a more sustainable future in construction and beyond. This paper underscores the transformative potential of AI in renewable energy and its critical role in shaping the future of sustainable construction practices.

Research on the energy saving behaviors of university students based on TPB in a hot summer–cold winter area in China

Energy saving in higher education institutions holds significant importance in the establishment of environmentally friendly and low-carbon societies, with the energy-saving behaviors of university students playing a pivotal role in the development of sustainable campuses. However, there is a clear need for customized strategies to encourage energy-saving habits among university students in areas of China with extreme weather conditions, such as hot summers and cold winters. This study offers a thorough examination of the literature regarding energy-saving behaviors among college students and presents a new theoretical framework based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). A survey questionnaire is conducted at universities in regions with hot summers and cold winters across China, with the goal of identifying the main factors that influence students' intentions and actions regarding campus energy conservation. From July to August 2022, we collected 512 survey responses from different university campuses in China's hot summer-cold winter weather zone. The survey asked about subjective norms, understanding of energy conservation, and the importance of saving energy. Utilizing the Structural Equation Model (SEM), we examined how influencing factors are associated with energy conservation behaviors. Our findings indicate that (1) both the significance of energy conservation and subjective norms significantly drive energy-saving actions; (2) distinct factors impact different forms of energy-saving practices; and (3) the inclination to save energy partially mediates the relationship between comfort choices and the significance of energy conservation. This study presents a validated behavioral model tailored for regions experiencing hot summers and cold winters, offering valuable insights for college administrators in managing energy usage while also serving as a theoretical reference for establishing environmentally sustainable campuses.

Impact on Annual Energy Cost due to Air-Conditioner selection for Hotel Business setup in North India

Energy consumption is a critical factor in determining the overall cost and profitability of a hotel. High energy consumption can significantly increase operating costs, which directly impacts the overall financial performance of a hotel (Filimonau et al., 2011). By reducing energy consumption, hotels can effectively lower their operating costs and increase profitability. This can be achieved through various measures such as implementing energy-efficient lighting systems, optimizing HVAC systems, using smart technologies for better control and monitoring of energy usage, and adopting energy-saving practices in areas such as heating, cooling, and ventilation. Implementing these energy-saving measures can not only reduce the hotel's carbon footprint but also improve its competitiveness in the market (Čingoski & Petrevska, 2018). Additionally, promoting energy conservation in a hotel can also contribute to enhancing its reputation and attracting environmentally conscious guests (Filimonau et al., 2011). Overall, the impact of energy consumption on the cost and profit of a hotel is significant. Keywords Energy consumption, Air-Conditioner Selection, Advance Technologies, Energy Saving, AC Star Rating, Five Star AC, Inverter AC, Split AC, Window AC.

Synergistic effects of nudges and boosts in environmental education: Evidence from a field experiment

This study investigated the short-term and long-term impact of nudging and boosting within an environmental education program on students' environmental attitudes and energy-saving actions. We conducted a randomized assignment across primary and junior high schools, employing four study settings: board game-based environmental education without nudges or boosts (control); with nudges (setting energy-saving goals in a reflection session); with boosts (a game with a “tragedy of the commons” setting); and with both nudges and boosts. In the game with the “tragedy of the commons” setting, the specification was that pursuing self-interest would harm those of the entire group as well as one's own interests; the aim was to enhance environmental literacy by conveying the importance of cooperation through information. We found that students subjected to the boost became significantly more environmentally conscious in the game and set more goals in the goal-setting nudge task. A follow-up survey was conducted one- and three-months post-intervention. This revealed that students in the nudge-and-boost group, who set higher goals, displayed increased awareness of energy conservation, improved environmental attitudes, and greater adoption of energy-saving practices relative to the control group. The results suggest that combining nudges with boosts sustains the long-term effects of environmental education.

Investing the impact of person-environment fit and normative factors on employees’ energy-saving behavior in the workplace

Purpose One of the simplest ways to improve the profitability of a business is by saving energy. Responding to recent calls to investigate the mechanism leading to individuals’ energy-saving behaviors in the workplace, this study aims to investigate combining person-environment (PE) fit theory with normative factors to understand employees’ decisions to engage in energy-saving activities. Design/methodology/approach The results of an online survey reveal that person-organization fit, person-job fit and moral norm significantly affect employees’ energy-saving intention. Findings Furthermore, the findings show that moral norm is the strongest predictor of employees’ willingness to save energy. The results also demonstrate the interrelated relationships between PE fit and normative factors. Originality/value The results contribute overall to a greater understanding of energy-saving practices in the organizational context. Apart from the theoretical contributions, the findings of the current investigation offer valuable practical insights for organizations and policymakers to promote energy conservation practices.

Switching off for the planet: ‘surface mimicry’ and energy saving practices in peer-to-peer accommodation

The introduction of novel energy-saving practices for the peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation sector is a key factor in reducing the effects of greenhouse gas emissions in tourism and hospitality. “Surface mimicry” is an alternative visual intervention that may prove to be effective in saving energy in the P2P accommodation locations. Through the use of three scenario-based experiments, this study was able to validate the main effect of surface mimicry on the property-mapping mindset of guests (i.e. their beliefs around energy-saving) and their intentions to switch off lights. The serially mediating effects of guests’ attitudes towards P2P accommodation were also authenticated. This solution-oriented yet theoretically-driven study contributes to the literature on hospitality and pro-environmental behaviour by examining the causal impacts of surface mimicry on guests’ property-mapping mindset and energy-saving behaviours. It also advances knowledge of surface mimicry theory by adding the important role of “individual attitudes”, and by clarifying the related influencing mechanisms in the unique P2P accommodation context.

A study on creating energy efficient cloud-connected user applications using the RMVRVM paradigm

Many applications that run on smartphones are heavy on User Interface (UI) and depend on back-end services deployed on the cloud to fetch the required data through REST-based API. Because of the large number of devices actively being used, their collective energy consumption is very significant. Saving energy on these devices is beneficial not only for reducing the carbon footprint but also for the end users as it results in longer battery life. The data fetched by these applications using the REST API is generally processed, filtered and made compliant with the user interface through a paradigm called the Model View View-Model (MVVM).In our previous work Singh (2022a), we proposed a novel Remote-Model View Remote-View-Model (RMVRVM) paradigm to reduce battery consumption by MVVM-based UI-centric cloud-connected applications. In this paper, we present new results and details of the architecture and properties of the RMVRVM paradigm, discuss the complexity shift, provide a migration framework to help practitioners migrate the existing MVVM-based applications and also discuss the possibility of RMVRVM replacing MVVM. We apply the migration framework on an open-source MVVM application and run the experiment to prove the efficacy of RMVRVM. We also expanded the experiments to include the iOS platform and 4G network. To cover the complexity shift to server-side, we discuss the energy consumption on the cloud and how energy-saving practices in cloud data centers help save overall energy consumption.

Investigating Individual’s Energy Saving Behavior in Using Electric Vehicles: Extended Theory of Planned Behavior

The rapid climate change and its negative impacts have garnered global attention towards carbon emission mitigation efforts. The use of electric vehicles and individual energy-saving behaviors plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions from the transportation sector. The aim of this research is to analyze the influence of individual attitudes towards behavior, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control on the intention and behavior of energy-saving, particularly in the context of electric vehicle usage. This study employs a quantitative approach and a survey method using a Likert-scale questionnaire. The sample of respondents consists of electric vehicle users selected through random sampling. Data was collected through questionnaires with a scale ranging from 1 to 5, and a total of 313 samples were used for analysis. Data analysis was conducted using Structural Equation Model (SEM) with the assistance of SmartPLS 4 software. The results of the analysis indicate that an individual's attitude towards behavior plays a significant role in influencing the intention and behavior of energy-saving. Perceived behavioral control also directly influences energy-saving behavior. However, subjective norms do not have a significant impact on intention and energy-saving behavior. These findings suggest that to promote individual energy-saving behavior, there should be an emphasis on cultivating positive attitudes towards energy-saving practices and factors affecting behavioral control. This research provides valuable insights into the factors influencing individual energy-saving behavior in the context of electric vehicle usage. With a better understanding of these factors, we can contribute to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change.

Sailing Towards Sustainability: How Seafarers Embrace New Work Cultures for Energy Efficient Ship Operations in Maritime Industry

It is imperative to take proactive measures in light of the escalating concerns about greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of international shipping. The GHG study conducted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) indicates that the sector accounted for 2.2% and 2.89 % of emissions in 2012 and 2018, respectively. As a result, IMO has endorsed strategies to reduce ship-induced emissions to 50% by 2050 and net zero emissions by 2100. For reducing carbon emissions, regulations such as the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) were implemented a decade ago. We collected data from 104 seafarers in 24 countries using purposive sampling, exploring how the energy-efficient operation of ships transforms their work cultures onboard ships. The majority of seafarers in our study agreed that energy-efficient ship operation has changed seafarers' working cultures over the last decade. Seafarers have adopted a variety of energy efficiency (EE) practices, including meticulous record-keeping of fuel consumption and adherence to Planned Maintenance Systems. As well as preparing for Port State Control (PSC) inspections, they follow energy-saving measures prescribed by the SEEMP. In addition to engine maintenance, energy-saving practices, accurate reporting and recording of EE-related data, and efficient power usage, they provide just-in-time arrival, crew training, energy-efficient lighting, environmental awareness, and slow steaming to minimize fuel consumption. The majority of seafarers implemented SEEMP successfully and met the company's objectives, but they did not receive any form of recognition or financial incentives. Although SEEMP can help shipping companies gain financial benefits and preserve the environment, seafarers do not receive tangible rewards or appreciation for implementing it. Only one-fourth of seafarers were rewarded with incentives, bonuses, formal recognition, or trophies. This study holds significant implications for policymakers, offering insight into seafarers' adaptation to energy-efficient ship operations and advocating for integrating Industry 4.0 technologies for EE regulations compliance by reducing seafarers' workloads and improving data accuracy.

Sociodemographic drivers and interconnected energy-saving practices: insights from Ecuador's household sector

Purpose The escalating levels of greenhouse gas emissions have become a growing global concern, with household energy consumption emerging as a significant contributor. To develop effective public policies, it is crucial to understand the energy-saving behavior of households. This study delves into the determinants of energy-saving practices in a developing country.Design/methodology/approach The authors chose a multivariate probit model, as it allowed to look after possible correlations among seven energy-saving practices within households.Findings The findings underscore the significant influence of sociodemographic variables, such as gender, civil status, income and education, on energy-saving practices. Furthermore, the authors discovered that households where the head actively volunteers in social organizations are more likely to adopt energy-saving behaviors. Additionally, internet access positively contributes to pro-environmental behavior. This research reveals that certain energy-saving practices are interconnected, acting as complements or substitutes.Research limitations/implications Recommendations for public policy include prioritizing education in rural areas to boost energy-saving practices, improving internet access in nonurban regions and promoting citizen involvement in social organizations to enhance environmental awareness and encourage energy-saving behavior. The authors contribute to literature evidencing that certain energy-saving practices are not independent of each other, they are rather complementary and, in some cases, substitutes.Practical implications Recommendations for public policy include prioritizing education in rural areas to boost energy-saving practices, improving Internet access in nonurban regions and promoting citizen involvement in social organizations to enhance environmental awareness and encourage energy-saving behavior.Originality/value Previous studies have overlooked these interdependencies, highlighting the necessity of a system of equations to yield more efficient estimates by considering correlations between error terms.

Energy Cost Analysis and Operational Range Prediction Based on Medium- and Heavy-Duty Electric Vehicle Real-World Deployments across the United States

While the market for medium- and heavy-duty battery-electric vehicles (MHD EVs) is still nascent, a growing number of these vehicles are being deployed across the U.S. This study used over 2.3 million miles of operational data from multiple types of MHD EVs across various regions and operating conditions to address knowledge gaps in total cost of ownership and operational range. First, real-world energy cost savings were determined: MHD fleets should experience energy cost savings each year from 2021 to 2035, regardless of vehicle platform, with the greatest savings seen in transit buses (up to USD 4459 annually) and HD trucks (up to USD 3284 annually). Second, to help fleets across various geographies throughout the U.S. assess the suitability of EVs for their year-round operating needs, operational range was modeled using the XGBoost algorithm (R2: 70%) given 22 input features relevant to vehicle efficiency. Finally, this paper recommends (1) that MHD fleets apply energy-saving practices to minimize the impacts of cold temperatures and high congestion levels on vehicle efficiency and range, and (2) that local hauling fleets select trucks with a nominal range nearly double the expected maximum daily range to account for range losses under local, urban driving conditions.

Energy Conservation at Home: A Critical Review on the Role of End-User Behavior

The recent literature emphasizes the significance of occupants’ behavior in shaping home energy demand. Several policies have been defined and tools and technologies have been developed to raise people’s awareness and encourage energy-saving practices at home, but households’ energy demand keeps rising. The thesis is that the fundamentals on this topic are still unclear and that available tools, strategies and measures should be approached in a more integrated way, as they are not now effective enough to encourage energy savings. How these could be successfully combined is still a major knowledge gap. Thus, this article proposes a critical review of the literature to discuss the potential role of end users in energy conservation at home, preparing the ground for truly effective engagement strategies and tools to encourage behavioral change. To that end, a systematic literature review is performed, including over 130 relevant articles. According to the critical interpretation of their content, after years of technologically driven strategies, the most promising approaches capable of overcoming the intention–action gap are those more user-centered. However, relying solely on the social aspect is not effective. Synergistic integration of the two main clusters of studies has been identified as a promising field of research for the future.

Determinants of Sustainable Energy Saving Behavior among University Students in Malaysia: A Case Study of Management & Science University (MSU)

The increasing energy demand and its impact on climate change pose serious challenges to environmental sustainability. University students, as future leaders and decision-makers, have the potential to adopt and promote sustainable energy-saving behavior in their communities. However, the factors influencing their energy-saving practices are poorly understood, especially in the Malaysian context. Using a cross-sectional survey design, this research examines the factors influencing energy-saving behavior among students of MSU. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to MSU students, covering demographic details and variables related to energy-saving behavior and its determinants. The study employed stratified random sampling and used exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) for data analysis. The results show that social norms and perceived control over students’ behaviors are the only significant factors affecting sustainable behavior to save energy among students. At the same time, environmental awareness, energy literacy, and personal attitudes have no significant effect. Social norms are the strongest driver of energy-saving behavior, followed by perceived behavioral control. The findings suggest that interventions and policies to foster sustainable energy-saving behavior among students should focus on enhancing social norms and perceived behavioral control. This research fills the knowledge gap by offering specific insight into sustainable energy-saving behavior among Malaysian university students.

Green Campus Initiatives at Rahim Kajai College: Students' Perspective

The concept of green campuses has become increasingly important for higher education institutions that aim to provide a conducive learning environment for students. This research aims to investigate the current trends in the green campus initiative and the perceptions of students regarding its implementation at the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, specifically at Rahim Kajai Residential College (RKRC). An online survey using Google Forms was conducted, with 208 students from RKRC participating in the study. The results indicate that over 80% of the respondents hold a positive view of green campus activities, and 90% of them feel that these activities have positively contributed to their awareness of environmental issues, encouraging them to adopt energy-saving practices. The study provides recommendations for promoting green campus initiatives at the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.

The Perceived Relationship between Eco-friendly Business Practices and Firm Performance of SMEs in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR

This study investigates the impact of environmental performance on firm profitability in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR. Data from 419 firms were collected using an e-questionnaire distributed through a Google form. The results indicate a need to increase awareness and acknowledgment of clean activities among surveyed firms. While there is a positive trend towards energy-saving practices and the provision of designated smoking areas, more efforts are required to encourage the wider adoption of reusable practices and prioritize proper waste management. Regression analysis reveals significant impacts on firm profitability, with firms having regulations for environmentally friendly practices, acknowledging clean activities, providing free space for waste sorting or disposal, and having designated smoking areas experiencing notable increases in profitability. However, the impact of energy-saving policies on profitability is not significant, potentially due to insufficient implementation. The study recommends implementing and enforcing effective energy-saving policies, strengthening eco-friendly regulations, encouraging waste management and recycling practices, and catering to customer preferences to enhance firm financial performance. These measures can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible business landscape in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR.