Examining the relationship between student residents’ self-reported energy consumption behavior and their energy-saving intention

Understanding the relationship between student residents’ energy-saving intention and behavior is crucial for enhancing sustainable living practices in student dormitories. This study examines the alignment between self-reported energy consumption behavior and the intention to save energy among student residents. A questionnaire survey conducted in a selected student dormitory collected data on self-reported energy consumption behavior, intention, and actual energy-saving action. The study applied the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), incorporating variables such as attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and personal moral norm, hypothesized to influence energy-saving intention and behavior. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used for data analysis, with an innovative focus on integrating self-reported behavior into the SEM framework. Four distinct SEM analyses were conducted based on different energy consumption behaviour patterns: air conditioning usage time, air conditioning setpoint preference, lighting usage time, and shower time. Findings reveal a significant willingness among student residents to adopt energy-saving practices, varying across groups defined by specific usage behaviors. Positive attitudes, supportive subjective norms, and strong personal moral norms significantly boost energy-saving intentions. Perceived behavioral control is critical in translating intentions into actual behaviors. Furthermore, interventions for high user groups should focus on practical solutions and leveraging social influences, while moderate and low user groups can benefit from strategies reinforcing their existing positive behavior and motivation. Educational initiatives, moral responsibility campaigns, and recognition programs can strengthen commitment and ensure that strong intentions consistently translate into effective energy-saving behavior, thereby enhancing sustainability efforts within student communities.