Determining the Factors Affecting Solar Energy Utilization in Saudi Housing: A Case Study in Makkah

Amin Barnawi (), Mohamed A. Zohdy and Tarik Hawsawi
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Amin Barnawi: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
Mohamed A. Zohdy: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
Tarik Hawsawi: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Oakland University, Rochester, MI 48309, USA

Energies, 2023, vol. 16, issue 20, 1-15

Abstract: This research paper examines the adoption of solar energy in residential buildings throughout Saudi Arabia, with a specific emphasis on Makkah. Despite the immense global demand for energy and growing environmental concerns, the adoption of solar energy in Saudi housing remains relatively low. While previous studies have examined the potential, feasibility, and policy support for solar energy, this research uniquely approaches the issue from the perspective of customers on a national scale. The study aims to identify the factors that influence customers’ intentions to use solar energy in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the development of a sustainable circular supply chain for renewable energy. To achieve this, the research integrates the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2). An online questionnaire was distributed, garnering responses from a total of 250 participants. A regression analysis was employed to analyze the data and examine the relationships between the proposed hypotheses. The study’s findings reveal that four critical factors wield significant influence over consumer behavior and their decisions regarding the adoption of solar PV technology. These factors are: Social Influence (SI), Performance Expectancy (PE), Effort Expectancy (EE), and Facilitating Conditions (FC).

Keywords: solar energy; awareness; energy sustainability; solar energy adoption; UTAUT (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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