Strategic drivers for the deployment of energy economics principles in the developing construction industry: A Nigerian perspective

In developing countries, there is a scarcity of research focusing on the factors that drive the adoption and utilization of energy economics principles (EEPs). EEPs encompass a diverse set of strategies and practices designed to encourage energy efficiency, promote the adoption of renewable energy sources, and foster sustainable energy practices among construction stakeholders. Despite their potential benefits, such as reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, there remains a knowledge gap regarding the specific drivers influencing the implementation of EEPs in developing countries. Therefore, this study addresses this knowledge gap by examining the primary drivers for utilizing EEPs in the Nigerian construction industry. To achieve this objective, a quantitative research approach was adopted. Close‐ended questionnaires were developed and distributed to professionals in the construction industry, encompassing architects, builders, engineers, and quantity surveyors. The normality of the data was confirmed through univariate skewness and kurtosis analysis. Based on the relative importance index (RII) and mean scores, the highest‐ranked driver was government policies and regulations, followed by economic growth and job creation. Environmental sustainability ranked third, while energy cost savings and return on investment occupied the fourth and fifth positions respectively. Through exploratory factor analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation, six key criteria that drive the adoption of EEPs were identified: financial‐related drivers, environmental‐related drivers, social‐related drivers, government‐related drivers, technological‐related drivers, and behavioral‐related drivers. By identifying these six distinct clusters of drivers, this study enhances the understanding of the drivers for implementing EEPs, ultimately facilitating the transition to more energy‐efficient and sustainable practices in the construction sector and beyond.

knowledge gap regarding the specific drivers influencing the implementation of EEPs in developing countries.Therefore, this study addresses this knowledge gap by examining the primary drivers for utilizing EEPs in the Nigerian construction industry.To achieve this objective, a quantitative research approach was adopted.Close-ended questionnaires were developed and distributed to professionals in the construction industry, encompassing architects, builders, engineers, and quantity surveyors.The normality of the data was confirmed through univariate skewness and kurtosis analysis.Based on the relative importance index (RII) and mean scores, the highest-ranked driver was government policies and regulations, followed by economic growth and job creation.
Environmental sustainability ranked third, while energy cost savings and return on investment occupied the fourth and fifth positions respectively.Through exploratory factor analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation, six key criteria that drive the adoption of EEPs were identified: financial-related drivers, environmental-related drivers, social-related drivers, government-related drivers, technological-related drivers, and behavioral-related drivers.
By identifying these six distinct clusters of drivers, this study enhances the understanding of the drivers for implementing EEPs, ultimately facilitating the transition to more energyefficient and sustainable practices in the construction sector and beyond.
building design, built environment, construction projects, energy economics, energy efficiency, quantity surveying

| INTRODUCTION
The rising urbanization and concentration of the world's population in cities raise concerns about the sustainability of urban areas.According to the United Nations World Urbanization Prospects Report, it is projected that almost 70% of the world's population will live in urban areas by 2050. 1 This statistic highlights the importance of addressing energy-related issues such as efficiency, renewable sources, and greenhouse gas emissions reduction.This is because as urban populations continues to soar, so does the demand for energy to power homes, transportation and industries. 2,3Consequently, ensuring the sustainability of these expanding urban landscapes requires concerted efforts in planning and implementing energy policies that not only meet the increased demand but also reduce environmental impact and contribute to the fight against climate change. 4In response to this challenge, an increasing number of cities and economies across the globe are reevaluating their conventional development practices and adopting energy economics principles (EEPs). 5These principles promote energy efficiency across various aspects of urban development, ranging from building and transportation systems performance enhancements to energy conservation and the adoption of renewable energy sources.The objective is to envision a future where energyefficient, renewable, and affordable solutions drive urban development, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.It emphasizes SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy and SDG 13: Climate Action, promoting sustainable energy practices.Additionally, it fosters innovation in energy-efficient technologies within the construction industry, supporting sustainable industrial growth and infrastructure development in line with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
In the context of this study, energy economics principles (EEPs) are defined as a set of guiding principles and practices aimed at promoting energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and sustainable energy practices within the construction industry. 6According to Torres-Quezada et al., 5 EEPs encompass strategies such as optimizing building design, utilizing energy-efficient materials and technologies, implementing smart energy management systems and integrating renewable energy sources into construction projects.Despite the importance of EEPs in reducing energy consumption, minimizing environmental impact and achieving long-term economic viability in the built environment, developing countries such as Nigeria continue to face challenges in fully adopting and implementing these practices.][9][10][11][12] Addressing the existing research gap, there is a recognized necessity for more comprehensive studies on EEPs and their relevance to the construction industry in the region.Particularly, in Nigeria, there is a notable scarcity of research focusing on the drivers that motivate the utilization of EEPs.In light of this context, the primary objective of this study is to bridge the knowledge gap by seeking the perspectives and insights of construction professionals.
By doing so, this research aims to contribute valuable insights into the drivers influencing the adoption and utilization of EEPs in the Nigerian construction industry.

| Statement of industrial relevance
The findings of this study can serve as a valuable source of reference for policymakers, industry professionals, and researchers in Nigeria and other developing countries.Outcomes from the research can also inform decision-making processes, policy formulation, and the development of strategies to promote sustainable energy practices in the construction sector.Furthermore, the identified drivers can serve as a starting point for exploring more specific aspects of EEP adoption and utilization, thereby contributing to the knowledge and understanding of sustainable energy practices in the construction industry.

| Novelty of the research
This manuscript makes a unique contribution by focusing on the drivers for utilizing energy economics principles (EEPs) in the Nigerian construction industry, which has received limited attention in previous research.This manuscript also employs a quantitative research approach, using closed-ended questionnaires.This method enables a systematic and rigorous analysis of the data collected from professionals in the construction industry.By combining this approach with exploratory factor analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE), the study offers a unique and robust perspective on the primary drivers for the adoption of EEPs.

| REVIEWING OF EXISTING LITERATURE
In the context of energy economics principles (EEPs), drivers are crucial in motivating stakeholders to adopt sustainable energy practices and enhance energy efficiency in the construction sector.The identified drivers discussed in this section can effectively promote the adoption of EEPs not only in Nigeria but also in other developing countries.One of the most critical drivers identified from extant literature is the cost-effectiveness of EEPs, which often acts as a strong incentive for stakeholders to embrace energy-efficient approaches in construction projects. 12Likewise, Du et al., 13 emphasize the potential for energy cost savings through the use of energy-efficient technologies and designs.They highlight that by investing in energy-efficient practices, construction stakeholders can benefit from reduced energy expenses, resulting in a positive return on investment (ROI).This financial gain over time makes energy-efficient construction an attractive option. 11,13Also, Olopade 14 highlights that cost-effectiveness is closely linked to economic growth and job creation because the adoption of energyefficient construction practices can stimulate economic growth by generating demand for skilled labor and creating opportunities for specialized training programs. 14The author also stresses that the availability of skilled labor is crucial for implementing energy-efficient systems and technologies, further reinforcing the cost-effectiveness of EEPs.Similarly, the implementation of renewable energy technologies such as solar panels or wind turbines within the built environment has become increasingly cost-effective.According to Liang et al., 15 there has been a substantial reduction in the costs of generating electricity from renewable sources, including solar PV and onshore wind.As such, buildings equipped with these technologies can generate their own electricity at a cost that is often competitive with or even lower than the price of electricity from the grid.Besides, buildings designed and constructed with energy-efficient materials and renewable technologies can benefit from increased property values, making them more attractive to potential buyers or renters. 15search and development (R&D) funding also plays a crucial role as a driver for the adoption of EEPs as it encourages the advancement of energy-efficient practices and facilitates their implementation in construction projects.Safarzadeh et al., 10 highlight that government funding of R&D can pave the way for the development of more energy-efficient building materials and methods to address the challenges and barriers in implementing EEPs.A concrete example of this can be seen in the solar power industry in some European Union Member States, where substantial investments in R&D led to a 60%-70% drop in the cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules per watt between 2010 and 2020. 16Moreover, R&D funding also supports the creation and improvement of tools and methodologies that facilitate the implementation of energy economics principles. 17This includes energy modeling software, energy auditing tools and decision-support systems that help policymakers and businesses make informed choices about energy use.According to Chen et al., 18 R&D funding can come from a variety of sources such as government grants, private sector investment and international funding bodies like the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the World Bank, which provide funding for energy-related R&D in developing countries.R&D efforts often go hand-in-hand with education and training initiatives. 9For instance, universities that receive R&D funding may provide education and training opportunities in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy, helping to build the skilled workforce necessary to implement these technologies.Simply put, education and training programs play a vital role in promoting the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, design principles, and construction techniques.By providing training on these aspects, professionals can stay updated with the latest advancements in the field, facilitating lifelong learning and professional development.R&D often involves collaboration between academic institutions, industry partners, and government agencies. 10This collaboration facilitates knowledge exchange, fosters innovation, and bridges the gap between academia and industry.
Climate change mitigation and adaptation are also significant drivers as they encompass strategies and practices aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing the environmental impact of buildings, and enhancing the resilience of built environments to the impacts of climate change. 19Key strategies to achieve these goals include optimizing building design, utilizing energy-efficient materials and technologies and promoting renewable energy sources. 12These practices contribute to minimizing the carbon footprint of buildings and reducing their overall environmental impact.Moreover, as the impacts of climate change become more pronounced, it is crucial to design and construct buildings and infrastructure that can withstand these challenges.Energy-efficient buildings equipped with features that can adapt to changing temperature conditions, are more resilient to extreme weather events such as heatwaves or storms. 11In addition to climate change mitigation, resource efficiency is an integral part of EEPs.Practices such as utilizing recycled materials, adopting efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and optimizing water management help minimize resource consumption and waste generation. 13By integrating resource efficiency into EEPs, the construction industry can achieve sustainable and efficient energy practices while reducing their energy demands in buildings.This not only conserves energy resources but also decreases greenhouse gas emissions and the overall carbon footprint of the built environment. 13rthermore, the incorporation of renewable energy technologies plays a vital role in environmental sustainability.By harnessing energy from renewable sources like solar, wind and geothermal, the construction industry can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy system. 10tegrating renewable energy technologies into building designs allows for on-site generation of clean and renewable energy, thereby reducing the environmental impact associated with energy production. 9Water conservation and efficient water management are also emphasized in environmental sustainability.Implementing watersaving technologies such as rainwater harvesting systems and waterefficient fixtures helps to reduce water consumption and promote sustainable water use practices within the construction industry. 20ble 1 presents a list of drivers for the implementation of EEPs based on a review of existing literature.This list is not exhaustive and may vary depending on the context.

| Formulation of questionnaire
The study utilized a quantitative research strategy, employing a wellstructured questionnaire for extensive data collection within a limited timeframe. 21This approach aimed to gather numerical data that could be analyzed using statistical methods, providing objective and measurable insights into the research topic. 22To identify the variables or drivers for the study, a desk survey was conducted, involving a comprehensive review of existing literature, reports, and relevant documents. 23This literature review led to the identification of 26 drivers, which were incorporated into the formulation of the questionnaires used as the data collection instrument.This approach allowed for data observation beyond the physical presence of the observer, enabling participants to provide their responses independently. 24The data collection instrument consisted of two sections.The first section focused on collecting demographic data from the respondents, while the second section specifically investigated the key drivers for energy economics principles (EEPs) from the perspective of construction professionals practicing in Lagos State, Nigeria.Lagos State was chosen as the research site for this study due to its status as the most populous state in Nigeria.This selection makes it an ideal representative sample for examining the drivers behind the adoption of EEPs in the Nigerian construction industry. 25Given its substantial population, Lagos State offers a diverse array of construction projects and stakeholders, thereby providing valuable insights into the factors that influence the implementation of EEPs.

| Sampling techniques
Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed to gather data from construction professionals, leveraging their unique expertise and knowledge in the field.The purposive sampling approach ensured the selection of construction professionals with specific qualifications and experiences that aligned with the study's objectives, 26 thereby enabling valuable insights into the adoption of EEPs in the Nigerian construction industry.In addition, the snowball sampling technique was utilized, whereby initial participants were requested to refer other construction professionals who met the study's criteria.This method facilitated the expansion of the sample by tapping into the networks and connections of the initial participants. 27The sample size for this study was determined using the Yamane equation. 28A survey of the available annual reports from professional bodies representing construction professionals revealed a total population of 3649 members, including 922 architects, 802 builders, 1004 engineers and 921 quantity surveyors.Applying the Yamane equation, a sample size of 360 respondents was calculated, ensuring a precision level (e) of 5%.By combining these sampling techniques and employing an appropriate sample size, the study aimed to encompass a diverse range of perspectives and experiences from the construction professionals in order to obtain insightful and T A B L E 1 Drivers for the adoption of environmental economic practices.Source: Tables created by authors.
comprehensive data regarding the drivers influencing the implementation of EEPs in the Nigerian construction industry.Google Forms was selected as the platform for survey administration due to its userfriendly interface, flexibility in questionnaire design and ease of data collection and analysis.For this study, 360 questionnaires were administered and 264 were retrieved, indicating a response rate of 73%.This response rate was deemed satisfactory for the study, as previous research on questionnaire-based studies suggests that response rates exceeding 20% are considered appropriate. 29For the questionnaire, a five-point Likert scale was adopted, with 5 = high significance, 4 = high significance, 3 = moderate significance, 2 = low significance, and 1 = very low significance.This scale was chosen to enable respondents to express their perceptions and evaluations of the variables under investigation.

| Data collection and analysis
The collected primary data from the study underwent analysis using various descriptive statistics tools such as mean values (X) and standard deviations (SD), the relative importance index (RII), the onesample t-test, exploratory factor analysis and the Fuzzy Synthetic Evaluation (FSE).According to Khatib et al., 30 the RII serves two crucial purposes.First, it allows for the identification of the most significant criteria based on the responses of the participants.Second, it provides a suitable method for prioritizing the indicators assessed using the Likert scale employed in the study.The RII is calculated using the following formula: In this formula, RII represents the Relative Importance Index, w denotes the weight assigned to each driver by the respondents on a scale of 1 to 5, A represents the highest weight (which is 5 in this case), and N indicates the total number of responses.This calculation allows for a quantitative assessment of the relative importance of each driver based on the ratings of the participants.To determine the relative significance of the variables, the study employed the onesample t-test, a statistical procedure designed to examine the difference in means between the sample and the known value of the population mean. 31Additionally, the reliability and internal consistency of the scale utilized in the study were assessed using the Cronbach's alpha coefficient test.Hair et al., 32 highlighted that a scale is considered reliable if the Cronbach's alpha coefficient exceeds 0.7.
The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the variables yielded a value of 0.922, indicating a high level of reliability for further analysis.
Furthermore, to ensure the validity of the questionnaire, a pilot study was conducted. 33The pilot study involved a smaller sample of participants who completed the questionnaire and provided feedback on its clarity, relevance, and comprehensiveness.Based on the results and feedback obtained from the pilot study, necessary revisions and adjustments were made to the questionnaire to enhance its validity and improve the overall quality of data collection. 23The construct validity of the collected data can also be assessed by examining the factor loadings. 34In this study, the factor loadings for the drivers ranged from 0.581 to 0.876, indicating their acceptability.According to Hasani, 35 factor loadings greater than 0.5 are considered valid, further confirming the construct validity of the collected data.The fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) technique, developed by Zadeh, 36 was also employed in this study to establish criteria drivers for the deployment of EEPs.The FSE technique is a robust tool for handling uncertainties such as data limitations and the subjectivity inherent in linguistic scale assessments.According to Aghimien et al., 37 FSE also provides a modeling approach for quantifying multiple attributes and variables.Also suggest that employing a 5-point Likert scale ensures consistency in data assessment and analysis.For statistical analysis, the study utilized the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23) and RStudio.
These software tools enabled comprehensive and rigorous analysis of the collected data, enhancing the validity and reliability of the findings of this study.The distribution of years of experience showed that a significant proportion of respondents had 1-5 years of experience (37.

| View of respondents on the need for energy economics principles in construction
The construction industry is in clear need of a substantial transformation that involves the adoption of energy economics principles (EEPs) in its practices.This paradigm shift acknowledges the critical interconnections between energy efficiency, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. 9It also requires a comprehensive reassessment of land-use planning, policymaking and community engagement to effectively incorporate these principles into construction processes.In light of this, respondents were asked to determine their level of agreement regarding the transformative shift toward EEPs in construction.where two or more variables had the same RII, the variable with the highest mean was given a higher rank. 19Similarly, when multiple variables had the same mean, the variable with the lowest standard deviation was prioritized in terms of ranking. 38Results from Table 3 show that all drivers examined in the study had mean values greater than the hypothesized mean of 3.5, and their corresponding SE was close to zero, indicating a high level of consistency and agreement among the respondents. 39The normality of the data was confirmed through univariate skewness and kurtosis analysis, with the absolute values of skewness and kurtosis falling within the acceptable range. 40Based on the RII and mean scores, the highest-ranked driver was government policies and regulations, followed by economic growth and job creation.Environmental sustainability ranked third, while energy cost savings and return on investment occupied the fourth and fifth positions respectively.However, cost-effectiveness and energy-efficient building materials were ranked relatively lower in importance.It is noteworthy that all the drivers were deemed critical and essential for the utilization of EEPs, as indicated by their means surpassing the hypothesized mean adopted in the study.

| One-sample t-test
To further assess the significance of the responses, a one-sample ttest was conducted.The test provided information on the degrees of freedom (df), test value and p-value. 39The study utilized a hypothesized mean of 3.5 (U o ) for the one-sample t-test, which serves as a threshold to identify key drivers for EEPs.Thus, variables with mean values equal to or higher than 3.5 are deemed significant drivers.In addition, the null hypothesis (H o ) in this study posits that the mean value is not a statistically significant driver, while the alternative hypothesis (H a ) asserts that the mean value is indeed statistically significant.Also, the 95% confidence level interval estimates the difference between the population mean weight and the test value (3.5). 19As highlighted by Aliu and Aigbavboa, 39 U o represents the critical rating above which the variable is considered important.The p-value is a statistical measure that helps determine the level of significance or the probability of observing the obtained results, assuming that the null hypothesis is true. 41,42This implies that the null hypothesis was not rejected when the p-value was less than 0.05. 39The t-values associated with all the drivers in the study were observed to be positive, indicating that their means were significantly higher than the hypothesized mean, as presented in Table 3.Furthermore, the p-values for all the key drivers were found to be below the significance level of 0.05.This suggests that there were no significant differences between the means of the drivers and the hypothesized mean of 3.5.

| Results of factor analysis
Factor analysis is a statistical technique used to uncover the underlying factors or dimensions that link observed variables.In this study, it aimed to simplify the complex relationships among the 26 variables and provide a deeper understanding of the dataset.According to Pallant and Manual, 43 factor analysis encompasses several components that contribute to its effectiveness.Factor loadings above 0.50 indicate a significant relationship between the variables, while communality measures the percentage of variation explained by the factors.
Eigenvalues  43 These values indicate adequate interrelationships among the variables in the dataset, suggesting that each original variable is reasonably related to the other variables included in the analysis.The six components which recorded an eigenvalue above 1 were retained as clusters and together they explained a variance of 68.593% in the data set. 46

| Results of the fuzzy synthetic evaluation
From Table 4, the first-level constructs encompass the following six main clusters of drivers: financial-related drivers, environmental-related drivers, government-related drivers, technological-related drivers, socialrelated drivers and behavioral-related drivers.Furthermore, the indicators within each criterion are categorized as second-level constructs. 47ese secondary-level variables play a vital role as input variables for the FSE technique.It is noteworthy that the weightings assigned to each indicator, also referred to as input variables, indicate their relative significance.These weightings are determined through the assessment of survey respondents as shown in Table 5. Membership functions which depict the degree of an element's membership in a fuzzy set, generally range between 0 and 1 and are derived in a hierarchical manner from level 2 to level 1. 48The membership functions for each criterion are calculated after obtaining the membership functions for the individual elements.Table 5 illustrates that the membership functions are derived based on the ratings provided by survey respondents, utilizing a 5-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (indicating very low significance) to 5 (indicating very high significance).
To establish combined-criterion drivers for EEPs, this study employs an additive approach.The chosen methodology for calculating a composite index or figure, which effectively represents the level of EEPs is a linear model.This composite index takes into account various dimensions such as financial-related drivers, environmental-related drivers, social-related drivers, governmentrelated drivers, technological-related drivers, and behavioral drivers.By employing this approach, a holistic assessment of the EEPs can be achieved, capturing the influence of multiple factors on their overall effectiveness.Table 6 provides an assessment index for the various driver criteria in the study.The table includes information on the criterion's index, coefficient, linguistic description, and ranking.Each driver criterion is assigned an index value, which represents its level of importance or significance in relation to EEPs.The coefficient associated with each criterion indicates its weight or contribution to the overall assessment.The linguistic description denotes the level of importance assigned to each criterion, with "High" indicating a relatively high level of significance.
The ranking column presents the relative ranking of the criteria, based on their index values and coefficients.The higher the index value, the higher the ranking of the criterion in terms of its impact on EEPs.
T A B L E 3 Descriptive statistics and one-sample t-test.Source: Tables created by authors.

| Financial-related drivers
According to Table 6, this cluster has the highest index of 4.429 and a coefficient of 0.314.This criterion is supported by five drivers: energy cost savings, return on investment, cost-effectiveness, economic growth, job creation, and the availability of skilled labor.One key driver is the potential for energy cost savings through the use of energy-efficient technologies and designs such as proper insulation, efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and energy-saving lighting.According to Du et al., 13 the adoption of these energy-efficient practices can significantly contribute to reducing energy bills in the long run, which often acts as a strong incentive for construction stakeholders to embrace energy-efficient approaches.
Alongside cost savings, the potential for a high return on investment (ROI) is another influential driver.While energy-efficient construction practices may require upfront investments, they often provide substantial returns over time. 49By investing in energy-efficient technologies, construction stakeholders can benefit from reduced energy expenses, resulting in a positive ROI.The long-term financial gains resulting from energy cost savings can outweigh the initial investment costs, making energy-efficient construction an attractive option. 13t only does energy-efficient construction make economic sense, but it also stimulates economic growth and job creation. 50According to Kapp et al., 49 the transition to energy-efficient construction requires skilled labor, ranging from architects and engineers to technicians and installers specialized in energy-efficient systems.This demand for a skilled workforce can lead to job creation and the development of specialized training programs, fostering economic growth in the construction industry and related sectors.

| Environmental-related drivers
This cluster has the second-highest index of 4.322 and a coefficient of 0.285.This criterion is also supported by five drivers: environmental sustainability, resource efficiency, waste reduction and recycling, biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation and adaptation.The construction sector is known for its significant environmental impact, including energy consumption, resource depletion, and greenhouse gas emissions. 3By implementing energy-efficient practices, the construction sector of developing countries such as Nigeria can reduce the environmental footprint of their construction projects.
This can be achieved through strategies such as energy-efficient design, the use of sustainable materials and the integration of renewable energy technologies. 12As a core principle in the transition to a more sustainable economy, resource efficiency has been considered a critical driver for the adoption of energy economics principles (EEPs).
According to Olopade, 14 by adopting energy-efficient practices such as using energy-efficient equipment, optimizing material use and implementing water-saving technologies, the construction sector can reduce resource consumption.This not only minimizes resource depletion but also reduces waste generation and the associated environmental impacts throughout the construction lifecycle. 12Moreover, promoting the use of recycled materials and incorporating recycling facilities on construction sites can further reduce the environmental impact associated with waste disposal. 11Likewise, energy-efficient design strategies can enhance the resilience of buildings and infrastructure to the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and rising temperatures.By addressing climate change through EEPs, the construction sector can contribute to global climate change mitigation efforts while adapting to changing climate conditions. 19

| Social-related drivers
This cluster has a criterion index of 4.217 and a coefficient of 0.317.
This criterion is also supported by five drivers: consumer awareness and demand, health and well-being, social responsibility, education and training, and awareness and knowledge.The study by Iqbal et al. 51 found that increased consumer awareness of energy efficiency has a direct impact on the demand for energy-efficient homes, which in turn, spurs the construction industry to adopt these practices.This is because consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of buildings and are seeking energy-efficient features that can reduce energy consumption, lower utility bills and provide a healthier living or working environment. 12This increased demand creates an incentive for the construction sector to incorporate energy-efficient technologies and practices to meet the preferences of environmentally conscious consumers. 20Also, the provision of education and training programs on energy-efficient construction practices and collaborations with educational institutions to foster a culture of energy efficiency within the construction industry. 3

| Government-related drivers
This cluster has a criterion index of 3.904 and a coefficient of 0.335.
This criterion is underpinned by four drivers: government policies and regulations, political will and leadership, international commitments and agreements and research and development funding.These drivers stem from the powers and influence that governmental entities have over various aspects of society, including the construction sector, as they are responsible for creating the necessary regulatory environment and offering the required support and incentives that push for the uptake of energy-efficient practices. 11The policies and regulations of the government have also been regarded as the "backbone" of driving energy-efficient practices as they are also responsible for setting the minimum standards for energy use and efficiency in construction. 20Moreover, the commitment of political leaders to energyefficient principles will significantly influence the speed and scale of their adoption in the construction sector.According to Iqbal et al., 17 when there is strong political will, the necessary resources can be greatly reduce energy consumption in buildings. 17Additionally, the use of digital tools in the planning, design and construction phases, such as building information modeling (BIM), enables more precise control over building design and construction, contributing to energy efficiency. 4Similarly, IoT (Internet of Things) devices facilitate smart energy management systems, enhancing energy efficiency in the built environment. 52Moreover, the advent of renewable energy technologies such as solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems has provided the construction sector with alternative and sustainable energy sources. 10These technologies can be integrated into the design and construction of buildings, providing clean, low-cost energy and significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels.Additionally, through the use of building energy modeling and simulation, a building's energy usage can be predicted during the design phase, enabling construction professionals to make data-driven decisions to optimize energy consumption. 12

| Behavioral-related drivers
According to Wuni et al., 19 attitudes and perceptions play a crucial role in driving energy efficiency in the construction sector.They argue that recognizing the importance of energy-efficient practices can improve the likelihood of prioritizing these principles in decision-making.Moreover, positive attitudes toward energy-efficient construction can lead to a cultural shift within the industry, where sustainability becomes a core value and a standard practice. 12Furthermore, financial motivations such as tax incentives, grants, or rebates can be effective in motivating stakeholders to invest in energy-efficient technologies and construction methods. 53Additionally, regulatory incentives such as energy performance standards or certification programs can drive compliance and adoption of energy-efficient practices. 52Likewise, stakeholder collaboration and participatory decision-making processes have been found to be essential in driving energy-efficient practices.According to Jacal et al., 9 engaging construction stakeholders and policymakers in decision-making processes fosters a sense of ownership and can promote the utilization of EEPs in construction projects.This study presents the first comprehensive empirical study on the key drivers for the deployment of EEPs in Nigeria, offering valuable insights and lessons for other developing countries grappling with similar challenges in their pursuit of sustainable and efficient energy systems.

| THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS
Overall, this study has yielded the following findings: • The study offers valuable insights and lessons that can aid in the promotion of sustainable and efficient energy systems, not only in Nigeria but also in other developing countries grappling with similar challenges.
• The identified drivers serve as a practical guide for policymakers, energy planners, and industry stakeholders in formulating targeted strategies and policies to foster sustainable energy practices within the construction industry.
• The study expands the existing knowledge base and provides a comprehensive framework for analyzing and evaluating the factors that drive the adoption of energy economics principles (EEPs).
• The findings hold both theoretical and practical implications, enhancing our understanding of the complex nature of energy economics and offering practical guidance for promoting sustainable energy practices within the construction industry.By implementing these recommendations, both the theoretical understanding and practical implementation of EEPs can be strengthened, leading to more sustainable and energy-efficient practices in the construction industry and contributing to the overall objective of creating a sustainable built environment.

| Limitations of study and future work
A few limitations should be acknowledged in this study despite its valuable contribution.First, the study relied on data collected through a quantitative survey.While efforts were made to ensure the validity and reliability of the data, there may still be limitations in terms of response bias.Future studies could consider incorporating more diverse data sources, such as interviews or case studies, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the drivers for EEP adoption.
Second, the study primarily focused on identifying and analyzing the key drivers for the adoption of EEPs.However, it did not delve deeply into the challenges and barriers that may hinder the effective implementation of these principles.Future research could explore the barriers and enablers for EEP adoption, as well as strategies to overcome the identified challenges.This would provide a more holistic understanding of the factors influencing the successful implementation of energy-efficient practices in the construction industry.Finally, comparative studies across different countries and regions could provide valuable insights into the contextual factors that influence the adoption and implementation of EEPs.Understanding the similarities and differences in drivers, barriers, and successful strategies can foster cross-country learning and help identify best practices for promoting energy-efficient construction worldwide.
12%), followed by 6-10 years (43.18%).A smaller percentage had 11-15 years of experience (19.32%) and only one respondent had 16-20 years of experience.The distribution of years of experience indicates a mix of professionals at different stages of their careers, bringing a range of perspectives and insights.Regarding membership status, the highest percentage of respondents fell into the category of fellows (32.19%), followed by corporate members (31.06%) graduates (29.55%) and probationers (7.20%).The varying membership statuses reflect the recognition and affiliation levels of the participants within their professional bodies, indicating their involvement and commitment to their respective fields.

Figure 1
Figure 1 presents data indicating that a substantial majority of the participants in the study recognize the significance of embracing energy economics principles within the construction sector.This collective recognition within the construction industry signifies a growing awareness of the urgent need to align economic development in construction with energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing sustainable construction practices guided by the principles of energy economics.

4. 3 |
Relative importance index of identified driversDescriptive statistics were used to analyze the responses obtained from the field survey.Mean scores (X), standard deviation (SD), standard error (SE) and the relative importance index (RII) were employed to assess the data.The (X) and SD were used to determine the level of agreement among the respondents, while the SE helped estimate the variation of sample means from the SD of the sampling distribution.The RII was utilized to identify the contribution of specific variables in predicting the criterion variable, both individually and in combination with other predictor variables.It served as a useful tool for prioritizing the indicators assessed on the Likert scale.In cases

1
Radar diagram indicating the level of agreement.Source: Figure created by authors.

5 . 5 |
mobilized and the appropriate measures implemented.Governments can also drive the adoption of EEPs by providing funding for research and development, which can lead to the development of more energy-efficient building materials and methods.The study by Safarzadeh et al., 10 also found that government funding of research and development has a positive impact on technological innovation in energy efficiency.Technological-related drivers This cluster has a criterion index of 3.811 and a coefficient of 0.226.This criterion is also underpinned by four drivers: technological advancements, energy-efficient building materials, renewable energy technologies and building energy modeling and simulation.According to Oke et al., 3 rapid technological advancements in the construction sector have brought forth numerous possibilities for improving energy efficiency.Innovations like smart thermostats, energy-efficient lighting, improved insulation materials and advanced HVAC systems can

•
It is recommended to continue research endeavors, invest in research and development, and encourage collaboration among stakeholders to further strengthen both the theoretical understanding and practical implementation of the drivers identified in this study for utilizing EEPs.

7. 1 |
Recommendations for theory and practiceThis study strongly encourages the adoption and implementation of energy economics principles (EEPs) in the construction industry, highlighting their potential to improve energy efficiency and promote sustainability.The findings of this study will offer valuable insights and lessons for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers aiming to advance sustainable energy practices, not only in Nigeria but also in other developing countries facing similar challenges.The study provides a comprehensive framework for analyzing and evaluating the factors driving the adoption of EEPs, offering practical guidance to industry professionals, policymakers, energy planners and other relevant stakeholders.This study underscores the importance of further research to expand the knowledge base and develop theoretical frameworks that integrate multiple drivers and their interrelationships.Future studies should investigate specific policy interventions, the influence of cultural and social factors on energy-efficient practices and potential barriers to EEP adoption in various regions and countries.By delving deeper into these areas, researchers can enhance the understanding of the complex dynamics surrounding energy economics in the construction sector.Continued investment in research and development is also vital to drive innovation in energy-efficient construction.Allocating funding to support research projects focused on developing new technologies, materials, and methods will further enhance the utilization of energy-efficient practices.Collaborative efforts among researchers, industry professionals, and government agencies can facilitate the practical application of research findings.

Table 2
presents the background information of the respondents who participated in this study with regards to their qualifications, professions, years of experience and membership status.In terms of academic qualifications, the majority of respondents held Bachelor's degrees (35.98%), followed by higher national diplomas (21.97%) and master's degrees (21.97%).A smaller percentage had ordinary national diplomas (12.5%), and a few respondents held PhD qualifications (7.58%).These findings imply that the study includes a diverse group of professionals with different educational backgrounds, including individuals with specialized knowledge and advanced degrees.Regarding the profession of the respondents, the largest group consisted of engineers (35.61%), followed by architects (25.76%), quantity surveyors (24.24%) and builders (14.39%).
T A B L E 2 Respondents' background information.
Source: Tables created by authors.
Membership function of drivers and criteria.
Note: (X) = Mean; SD = Standard deviation; SE = Standard error mean.Source: Tables created by authors.T A B L E 5 Assessment index for the criteria.
Environmental sustainability ranked third, while energy cost savings and return on investment occupied the fourth and fifth positions respectively.By employing exploratory factor analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation, six key criteria that drive the adoption of EEPs were identified namely: financial-related drivers, environmental-related drivers, social-related drivers, government-related drivers, technological-related drivers, and behavioral-related drivers.
tifying these six distinct clusters of drivers, this study contributes to the theoretical understanding of the multifaceted nature of energy economics.These clusters provide a comprehensive framework for analyzing and evaluating the factors influencing the deployment of energy principles in Nigeria.By providing valuable insights and practical guidance, this study serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, gap by examining the primary drivers for utilizing EEPs in the Nigerian construction industry through a quantitative research approach.The normality of the data was confirmed through univariate skewness and kurtosis analysis.Based on the relative importance index (RII) and mean scores, the highest-ranked driver was government policies and regulations, followed by economic growth and job creation.