Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of energy utilisation behaviours: A study of residential building occupants

Tilde, Aisha Ibrahim; Fernando, Nirodha Gayani

Abstract

Purpose
This study aims to assess residential energy consumption knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Abuja Municipality, providing insights for effective conservation strategies, reducing costs and mitigating environmental impact.
Design/methodology/approach
Data for this study was collected through a cross-sectional survey conducted among a representative sample of the Nigerian population between February and April 2021. A total of 462 questionnaire responses were collected and subsequently analysed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics, including frequency count, percentages, mean, and standard deviation, were calculated. Additionally, inferential statistics were performed using Chi-Square analysis, with significant level set at p = 0.05 to draw meaningful conclusions from the data.
Findings
The study results indicate that out of the total respondents, 244 individuals (67.4%) demonstrated a profound knowledge of and good practice in energy utilisation. In comparison, 118 individuals (32.6%) exhibited poor knowledge and practice in energy saving. Moreover, the findings reveal a significant association between the sociodemographic factors of the respondents, building type, and their overall practice in energy utilisation. Statistical analysis shows significant? 2 values for each case: 8.563 (p = 0.003), 66.736 (p = 0.000), 60.866 (p = 0.000), 23.487 (p = 0.000), 37.877 (p = 0.000), and 92.334 (p = 0.000), respectively, where p < 0.05. These results highlight the importance of considering sociodemographic profiles and building characteristics when assessing general energy utilisation practices.
Originality/value
The research offers valuable insights into Nigerian energy usage behaviours and attitudes towards energy saving in residential buildings, contributing significantly to the knowledge base.

Citation

Tilde, A. I., & Fernando, N. G. (2024). Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of energy utilisation behaviours: A study of residential building occupants. Built Environment Project and Asset Management, 14(3), 349-365. https://doi.org/10.1108/bepam-01-2023-0008

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Apr 5, 2024
• Online Publication Date: May 28, 2024
• Publication Date: 2024
• Deposit Date: May 31, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: May 31, 2024
• Print ISSN: 2044-124X
• Publisher: Emerald
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 14
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 349-365
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1108/bepam-01-2023-0008
• Keywords: Energy Consumption, Behaviour, Energy utilisation behaivour, Practices, Knowledge, Attitudes