Factors Influencing the Adoption of Solar Energy Systems by Household in Malaysia

Abstract

The growing concern over environmental sustainability and rising energy costs has increased interest in renewable energy adoption particularly solar energy systems (SES). Hence, this study examines the importance factors influencing the adoption of SES among households in Johor Bahru (RO1), investigates the relationships between the factors and adoption of SES (RO2) and assess the differences in SES adoption based on respondent demographic (RO3). This study adopted the Motivation-Ability-Opportunity (MOA) framework and viewed MOA as the key factors influencing SES adoption. The research employed a quantitative approach with the household in Johor Bahru as the target population and a sample size of 68 recommended by Raosoft. A structured questionnaire was distributed using a purposive sampling method and 97 responses were received. Descriptive analysis results reveal that respondents viewed all the three MOA factors are important. Pearson correlation results suggest that motivation, ability, and opportunity are significantly and positively correlated with the SES adoption. Meanwhile, ANOVA results show that there are significant differences in SES adoption based on monthly household income. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into household solar energy adoption and offers practical implications for policymakers, energy providers and stakeholders in supporting Malaysia’s renewable energy goals.