An Empirical Study on Factors Shaping Sustainable Energy Use Behavior: Analysis of social influence and environmental awareness threshold

Abstract

Understanding the determinants of household adoption of new energy sources is crucial for developing effective energy transition policies. This study explores how environmental awareness and social influence affect the adoption of new energy sources among residents of Ningxia, China. SEM analysis based on questionnaire data from Ningxia residents shows that environmental awareness significantly increases the likelihood of adopting new energy technologies. Social influence, manifested by social norms and peer demonstration, also plays a decisive role in residents' adoption decisions. The findings emphasize that in underdeveloped regions, combining environmental education with community-based policy tools is of great significance for accelerating energy transition at the household level.