A Qualitative Analysis of Factors Leading to the Adoption of Residential Photovoltaics

Evangelia Karasmanaki (), Konstantinos Ioannou, Georgios Siakas, Spyros Galatsidas and Georgios Tsantopoulos ()
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Evangelia Karasmanaki: Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, Pantazidou 193, 68200 Orestiada, Greece
Konstantinos Ioannou: Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Forest Research Institute, Vasilika, 57006 Thessaloniki, Greece
Georgios Siakas: Department of Political Science, Democritus University of Thrace, 69100 Komotini, Greece
Spyros Galatsidas: Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, Pantazidou 193, 68200 Orestiada, Greece
Georgios Tsantopoulos: Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, Pantazidou 193, 68200 Orestiada, Greece

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 8, 1-18

Abstract: Although previous quantitative studies have examined various elements involved in the adoption of residential photovoltaic systems, there has been weaker emphasis on qualitative research despite its ability to understand the complexities behind adoption decisions. This article analyzes data from in-depth interviews with adopters and identifies emerging themes about the factors leading householders to adopt residential photovoltaic systems. Thematic analysis identified five key themes related to the economic, environmental, social and technological motives and barriers to adopting residential photovoltaics. Adopters’ main motive was to acquire an additional regular income, which, inter alia, would enable them to cover anticipated expenses such as costs linked to having children at university. Many adopters also combined the adoption with life events such as house renovations. The adoption of photovoltaics was also seen as providing a safe way to invest savings. Moreover, most adopters identified themselves as technology enthusiasts indicating the positive effect of technophilia on residential photovoltaic adoption. Despite having installed photovoltaics, participants recognized that adoption can be inhibited by high capital cost, investment taxation and limited grid capacity. The similarities and variety in the decision-making patterns identified in this study can be used to develop or improve strategies aiming at increasing residential photovoltaic adoption.

Keywords: adopters; solar energy; diffusion; residential photovoltaic systems; technology adoption; solar policies; in-depth interviews; thematic analysis (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: 2025
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