Factors affecting the adoption of solar power systems by domestic users in Western Province, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Renewable energy, harnessed from sources like sunlight, wind, and water, offers a promising path towards a sustainable energy future. Unlike fossil fuels, these resources are naturally replenished and generate minimal emissions. This shift towards clean energy can combat climate change, enhance energy security, and provide economic benefits. This study was mainly focused on solar energy adoption by domestic households and the main objective is to identify factors affecting the adaptation of solar power systems by domestic households of the western province of Sri Lanka. The study was employed the quantitative method and used various statistical analyzing tools such as MS Excel, SPSS and Smart PLS to analysis the survey data. Researcher conducted in-depth literature review to clearly identify and develop the research gap and other theoretical aspects of the research along with conceptual framework and study model. Through the study, it was made the effort to identify current intention level of domestic households to install solar power systems in the Western province. Further, based on a descriptive analysis of specific survey questions, and it has been identified that there is prevailing positive attitude towards solar power adoption within the province. The majority households, expressed satisfaction with the concept of adopting solar power systems in their households, highlighting their belief in the benefits of reducing electricity bills. Further, the researcher identified the factors affecting the adoption of solar power systems by domestic users in the western province. Some negative factors are negative social influence, low system characteristics, degraded facilitating methods, and individual differences such as low-income rates and a lack of education on system benefits. Finally, the recommendations were made by the researcher, in view of enhancing the adoption level of solar power systems by households in western province as well as island wide. Accordingly, these will be immensely benefitted to achieve energy related goals and objectives in line with the national interests of the Sri Lanka.