Quantitative assessment of energy conservation and renewable energy awareness among variant urban communities of Xiamen, China

Highlights: • Quantification of gaps between energy conservation knowledge and behavior among high-income households of Xiamen city. • 1150 households, 46 communities and six districts are analyzed for energy emission and renewable energy adaptation. • A significant correlation was found among income, household size, and energy use. • There is dire need to shrink the gap between energy-saving awareness and action. -- Abstract: This study investigated three research questions. Is there any correlation among income level, household size, and energy use among households of a city in a developing country? What gaps exist between energy saving behavior and practices of households? What is the current local awareness and level of use of renewable energy? These questions were addressed though a quantitative and qualitative approach with a survey using a Likert scale and yes/no answers. A random sampling technique was used to survey a total of 1150 household of 46 communities of six districts of Xiamen city of China. This data, in addition to the descriptive statistics, were analyzed through a Chi square test, Mann-Whitney test, and regression analysis. Results revealed that the energy supply mix of all the communities predominantly consisted of electricity (74%). Surprisingly results of this study are contradictory to the sustainable energy goals of China-2020. There was no source of renewable energy in the energy supply mix. Statistical significant relationship was found between income and energy use whereas there was a significant difference between household size and energy use. Households are using mostly non-efficient devices. No energy conservation and renewable energy awareness programs have been initiated by the government. Respondents are very willing to conserve energy and pay for renewable energy sources provided such initiatives have government support and programs that have a reward system. Recommendations include that local-scale policy makers should launch campaigns about energy saving awareness to shrink the gap between awareness and practice.