Residential Consumers Awareness of Energy Conservation Practices in Saudi Arabia

S El-Nakla, C B Yahya, H P Peterson, O K M Ouda, M Ouda
2018 KnE Engineering  
Energy efficiency and conservation are significant policy tools that can be introduced by governments to reduce electricity demand. The kingdom of Saudi Arabia possesses a wealth of energy resources. The exploitation of these resources has allowed the country to keep domestic energy prices low, through a system of direct and indirect subsides. Saudi Arabia boasts of having the world's largest proven oil reserves and being among the world's largest producer and consumer of electricity. However,
more » ... audi Arabia is facing unrestrained domestic fuel consumption, which has increased by more than 30% since 2000. This increased and inefficient consumption is causing environmental pollution and costing the country's budget in subsidizing electricity price that may add pressure on government. This study aims to measure the residential sector knowledge and awareness about energy conservation, which is the biggest sector in power consumption. The study uses questionnaire surveys containing quantitative and qualitative questions focused mainly on consumers' awareness in billing, efficient appliances and lighting systems. Results suggest that Saudi consumer behaviors in energy consumption are influenced by social, cultural, educational and economic factors.
doi:10.18502/keg.v3i7.3097 fatcat:677pauwnfnd5voe334z2lxqxvi