Determinants of energy-saving behavioral intention among residents in Beijing: Extending the theory of planned behavior

Given the rapid increase of residential energy consumption in Beijing, the question of how to promote residential energy-saving behavior is an emerging topic that is increasingly engaging the attention of scholars. To address this issue, this paper provides an empirical analysis that identifies and explores the determinants of an energy-saving behavioral intention among residents from the perspective of the theory of planned behavior (TPB). A theoretical model was constructed by refining and extending the classic TPB model according to the scope and requirements of this study and the existing situation in China. Survey data collected from 276 residents in Beijing were analyzed, and hypothesized relationships in the model were then verified using a structural equation model. The results show that subjective norms, environmental attitudes, information publicity, lifestyles, and perceived behavioral control significantly influence residents' energy-saving behavior, while demographic factors, such as educational background, household income, and age, had no obvious effects on behavioral intentions. Although knowledge regarding energy did not exert a direct influence on residents' energy-saving behavioral intentions, it did exert an indirect influence via environmental attitudes. Our results indicate that the role of households in saving energy expenditure should be emphasized, and financial incentives could be adopted to help promote environmental awareness among Beijing's residents. In addition, environment-friendly and energy-saving habits should also be inculcated.