Application of smart electronic systems, firm characteristics and efficient energy consumption – a case of public universities in Uganda
International Journal of Social Economics
ISSN: 0306-8293
Article publication date: 28 July 2020
Issue publication date: 5 August 2020
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the study is to examine the relationship between the application of smart electronic systems, firm characteristics and efficient energy consumption: a case of public universities in Uganda.
Design/methodology/approach
The study adopted both quantitative and qualitative approach as well as descriptive cross-sectional survey design tantamounting to an experimental-observation approach. A sample of four public academic universities were explored using primary data. A semi-structured questionnaire together with an evaluation form and a tested experimental kit (from one of the leading electronics centres in Uganda) was used to examine the consumption rates of different electronic appliances of less than 30 Amps. Further, a Pearson product moment correlation (r) analysis was also used to determine the direction of a relationship among the variables together with a linear relationship (regression) to predict a linear association of one or more variables. Recommendations were also given.
Findings
Smart electronic systems make a significant determining factor to both firm characteristics (age, number of students, administrative staff and support staff) as well as efficient energy consumption. Nonetheless, there is no significant difference of efficient energy consumption as far as firm characteristics are concerned.
Research limitations/implications
Results support the contributions of the theory of technology and acceptance model by affirming that a number of factors influence the usefulness and ease of use of the smart electronic systems, which in turn influence energy consumption.
Practical implications
Universities' management should endeavour to install smart electronic systems. But still, government should try to lower taxes on smart electronic systems and genuine agents should be named for easy and affordable access of the users, universities inclusive.
Originality/value
The study contributes towards a theoretical position by affirming the usefulness of technology acceptance model for efficient energy consumption in public universities.
Peer review
The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-02-2019-0083
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The Authors acknowledge Norad-NORHED Research Grant for Capacity Building in Education and Research for Economic Governance in Uganda (QZA-0486-13/0017).
Citation
Isingoma-Wakaisuka, J., Ibanda, C.K.K., Naluwooza, R. and Namaganda, C. (2020), "Application of smart electronic systems, firm characteristics and efficient energy consumption – a case of public universities in Uganda", International Journal of Social Economics, Vol. 47 No. 8, pp. 1023-1041. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSE-02-2019-0083
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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