An investigation of sustainability awareness and residential energy consumption in Qatar

Qatar is well-known as a country with abundant natural resources, and this enables the state to distribute energy to its people at little or no cost. This has led to significant over consumption and raised questions about how the country can achieve sustainable energy use. This study explores energy consumption behaviour in Qatar and considers the role renewable energy can play in supporting sustainability. One way to reduce energy consumption and achieve sustainability while promoting the development of renewable energy is to manage domestic demand. This paper draws on a number of motivational theories, notably Maslow's hierarchy of needs, self-determination theory, economic theory, social cognitive theory, the theory of two factors, and planned behaviour theory to assess energy consumption habits in Qatar with the aim of identifying the factors that motivate people to take steps to improve sustainability and support renewable energy use. This study adopts a mixed methods approach. Quantitative data was collected via a survey of members of the public in Qatar which focused on their awareness and behaviour with respect to energy consumption. Another survey of Qataris in the UK, where energy charges are levied, was conducted to establish how energy costs influenced their consumption behaviour. Qualitative data was obtained using interviews with Qatari experts in the energy sector, including energy policy makers, academics, and managers of energy companies. The main finding of the study is that knowledge and awareness development in relation to energy consumption and sustainability in Qatar can be used to influence attitudes and behaviour regarding sustainable energy use. Knowledge development has a significant impact on human and social capital, and these can motivate energy consumers to change their attitudes towards the use of renewable energy. Knowledge about energy enables consumers to use energy more responsibly and understand the long-term negative effects of traditional energy use on the environment and society. Current research on renewable energy in Qatar is still limited. This study provides additional insights into the importance of using renewable energy in the country and highlights the key motivational factors that could drive a transformational approach towards renewable energy and environmental sustainability. This will have significant implications for key stakeholders involved in promoting future sustainability in Qatar, including policy makers and energy users