Factors influencing the energy saving potential of suburban dwellings in Jiangsu Province, China

As environmental concerns continue to rise, scholars worldwide are increasingly focusing on energy efficiency in rural energy use. This study explores the energy efficiency potential of rural households in China, aiming to identify the key factors that influence this potential through correlation analysis. By utilizing multiple regression analysis, the study investigates the relationship between these factors and household characteristics. The research is based on rural areas in central Jiangsu Province, China, specifically targeting near and far residents to assess variations in energy-saving potential across different household types. The research findings indicate that: (1) The residential energy-saving potential of near suburban residents is primarily influenced by PC, ER, PR and education, with PR having the most significant impact. (2) The residential energy-saving potential of far suburban residents is mainly influenced by ER, PR, and EC, with EC having the most significant impact. (3) For all residents, PR, EC, SE, and GP significantly influence their residential energy-saving potential, with PR and EC having the most substantial impact. Based on these observations, targeted policy recommendations are proposed.