Who Will Save Energy? An Extension of Social Cognitive Theory with Place Attachment to Understand Residents’ Energy-Saving Behaviors

Abstract

With environmental concerns gaining prominence, the study of energy-saving behavior (ESB) has captured global expert attention. This research applied the SCT model and utilized survey data collected in Jiangsu Province to explore the factors influencing residents’ energy-saving behavior (ESB). The findings reveal that self-efficacy, attitudes, and social norms are direct positive determinants of ESB. Additionally, these factors mediate the positive relationship between knowledge and ESB. Notably, knowledge enhances self-efficacy, attitudes toward energy saving, and adherence to social norms, while outcome expectations improve attitudes and norms. Place attachment also emerges as a significant predictor of ESB, exerting its influence indirectly through attitudes and social norms. These insights enrich social cognitive theory by incorporating place attachment to examine ESB, substantially contribute to the discourse on environmental protection, and have implications for energy conservation strategies globally.