What aspects affect peoples perceptions of energy use? A comparison of heterogeneity versus homogeneity based on an in-depth review

Energy consumption plays a critical role in climate change, necessitating an understanding of the factors that shape perceptions of energy use. These perceptions significantly influence the adoption and expansion of renewable energy sources. This study conducts a comprehensive review of 45 articles to identify key factors that affect energy consumption perceptions, highlight gaps in existing literature and suggest areas for future research. The findings reveal distinct differences in energy use perceptions among developed, developing, and least-developed nations, driven by socio-demographic, cultural, and psychological factors. Socioeconomic variables, including energy education, cultural norms, and financial considerations, are shown to impact these perceptions. A notable deficiency in energy awareness, particularly among students, underscores the urgent need to revise educational curricula to foster energy consciousness and efficient usage in the younger generation. The study also highlights the critical need to explore the relationship between excessive energy use and perceptions of environmental damage and climate change, especially in developing countries where this issue remains insufficiently investigated. To address these challenges, the study recommends integrating energy education into school curricula, augmenting research in developing regions, offering government subsidies, and tackling climate risks associated with energy use. By understanding these influencing factors, policymakers and energy providers can formulate more effective regulations and policies, support the development and expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, and promote climate change mitigation and environmental sustainability.