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Exploring Influencing Factors of Energy Efficiency and Curtailment: Approaches to Promoting Sustainable Behavior in Residential Context

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  • Stelian Stancu

    (Faculty of Economic Cybernetics, Statistics and Informatics, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010552 Bucharest, Romania
    Centre for Industrial and Services Economics, Romanian Academy, 060031 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Anca Maria Hristea

    (Faculty of Accounting and Management Information Systems, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Camelia Kailani

    (Faculty of Marketing, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Anca Cruceru

    (Faculty of Marketing, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010374 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Denisa Bălă

    (Faculty of Economic Cybernetics, Statistics and Informatics, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010552 Bucharest, Romania)

  • Andreea Pernici

    (Faculty of Economic Cybernetics, Statistics and Informatics, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, 010552 Bucharest, Romania)

Abstract

The global energy crisis, driven by economic and political disruptions, has intensified efforts to transition toward a more competitive and sustainable society. This study, framed within the context of SDG 7, examines the influence of knowledge, psychological factors, and sociodemographic characteristics on two dimensions of sustainable residential energy consumption: energy efficiency and energy curtailment behavior. A quantitative survey was conducted with 1410 Romanian participants, using a structured questionnaire and convenience sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses reveal that knowledge of energy issues and the importance attributed to sustainable development goals positively influence intentions to conserve energy at home. Notably, perceived importance significantly influences the purchase of energy-efficient appliances (F = 23.01, p < 0.001) and moderately supports curtailment behaviors, as evidenced by higher adoption rates of actions such as disconnecting appliances and using natural lighting among participants with stronger pro-saving attitudes. Attitudes toward voluntary energy-saving measures also predict purchasing and curtailment behaviors, with intention playing a mediating role. Sociodemographic variables impact energy-saving behavior to varying degrees. While perceptions may differ across countries due to historical contexts, the findings provide a valuable benchmark for informing national policies and promoting voluntary energy-saving and production measures at the residential level, supporting the transition to sustainable energy.

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  • Stelian Stancu & Anca Maria Hristea & Camelia Kailani & Anca Cruceru & Denisa Bălă & Andreea Pernici, 2025. "Exploring Influencing Factors of Energy Efficiency and Curtailment: Approaches to Promoting Sustainable Behavior in Residential Context," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-25, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:10:p:4641-:d:1658878
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