Household characteristics and attitudes: Key indicators of energy efficiency in residences

Electricity powers the majority of daily activities in contemporary society. Households play an essential role in the consumption of this electrical energy. Electrical home appliances used for heating, cleaning, cooking, and personal care are the major home appliances that consume electricity in residences. For this reason, it is vital to increase energy efficiency and encourage energy-efficient behaviors to minimize energy use in all areas, including residential areas. This study aimed to explore the household- related factors on energy-efficient behavior. The three objectives of this empirical study are to determine the level of energy-efficient behavior of households, explore the attitudes toward electrical home appliances, and examine the selected household characteristics affecting energy-efficient behavior. The Energy-Efficient Behavior Scale (EEBS) has been used to determine households' energy-efficient behavior. The Attitudes Toward Electrical Home Appliances Scale (AEHAS) developed in this study has been used to determine households' attitudes toward electrical home appliances. The effect of household characteristics and the households' attitudes toward electrical home appliances on energy-efficient behavior was analyzed in a single model using logistic regression analysis. The study conducted in the Bursa region of Turkiye involved 662 participants selected through the Simple Random Sampling method. The study found that using electrical home appliances regularly and having a positive attitude increases energy-efficient behavior. The study's findings have implications for policymakers and practitioners assisting households with improving energy-efficient behavior.