Beyond technology determinants of energy efficiency in Saudi residential buildings: socioeconomic factors, awareness, and barriers

This study investigates how a suite of nontechnical factors including socioeconomic characteristics, awareness mechanisms, and perceived barriers jointly influence residential energy-efficiency attitudes and behaviors in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Drawing on a nationally representative survey of 1,003 respondents across four regions—Riyadh, Makkah, Eastern Province and the rest of KSA— it examines determinants of energy-saving behaviors, investment decisions, and engagement with energy-efficiency measures. The results indicate that social influences from family, workplaces, and broader societal norms are positively associated with energy-saving behavior, with 42 % of respondents reporting encouragement from family and peers. Results show that energy behavior is shaped by multiple interacting factors rather than any single dominant driver. Economic salience is critical as households with higher utility bills and price pressure are more likely to adopt energy-saving behaviors, while financial capacity strongly influences the decision to invest in energy efficiency. Awareness of energy waste is found to be generally high, with 44 % of respondents strongly agreeing that energy waste is a common issue and 63.6 % reporting awareness of national energy-efficiency programs. Barriers to energy-saving practices are observed to be predominantly practical and informational rather than motivational with almost 35 % respondents citing lack of awareness of available technologies as the primary barrier. The findings signify the need to move beyond technology-centric strategies toward integrated, people-centered energy-efficiency approaches. Policy frameworks should prioritize delivering clear and actionable information tailored to housing types, and addressing structural barriers such as split incentives.