Influence of maintenance contingency factors on occupant behaviour in the use of energy in public university buildings: contingency theory approach

Purpose This study aims to use variables of the contingency theory to assess the influence of maintenance contingency factors on occupant behaviour in the use of energy in public university buildings in Ghana. Design/methodology/approach Aligned with quantitative research, the study used survey to gather data from 456 senior members across 9 public universities in Ghana. Data gathered was analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling. Findings The findings revealed that situational factors of buildings and maintenance task structure have a significant influence on occupant energy use behaviour. Maintenance leadership style and leader–member relations were found to be statistically insignificant to occupant behaviour in the use of energy. However, they exhibit a hidden potential of indirect effect that is worth exploring. Research limitations/implications The findings of the study will encourage top university management to prioritise maintenance needs of existing buildings among other contingency factors to enhance building operations and efficient use of energy in university buildings. Originality/value Grounded in the contingency theory, this study presents rare findings on the explanatory power of maintenance contingency factors in explaining the variance in occupant energy use behaviour in public university buildings.