Why efficiency alone is not enough: a multidisciplinary review on reducing energy demand in the building sector

Despite significant advances in energy-efficient building (EEB) technologies, energy demand in the global building sector continues to rise. Addressing this gap, this study investigates the key dynamics constraining energy demand reduction, focusing on the multidimensional barriers hindering the adoption and diffusion of EEBs. In contrast to the predominantly single-issue approaches in the existing literature, this study adopts a holistic and multi-scalar perspective. It simultaneously examines macro-level demand trends alongside policy and governance structures, construction-sector, and user-related behavioural factors. By explicitly analyzing cause–effect relationships across these interacting dimensions, the study provides an integrated understanding of how seemingly independent barriers collectively undermine the effectiveness of energy efficiency strategies. Methodologically, the study employs a PRISMA-based systematic literature review, qualitatively analyzing 331 peer-reviewed studies published between 2005 and 2025 using thematic analysis. The findings show that energy-efficient building adoption is constrained by weak governance, construction sector–related barriers, and persistent behavioural mismatches that undermine realized energy savings. By synthesizing 54 challenges into interdisciplinary problem–cause–solution roadmaps, this study offers a comprehensive, evidence-based framework to support energy demand reduction and accelerate EEB adoption. The results highlight the necessity of addressing institutional, sectoral, and behavioural barriers, providing actionable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers.