Acceptance and Potential of Renewable Energy Sources Based on Biomass in Rural Areas of Hungary

Alexander Titov,Katalin Tóth,György Kövér,Bernadett Horváthné Kovács,Géza Gelencsér

doi:10.3390/su13042294

Alexander Titov, Katalin Tóth + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/su13042294

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Abstract

The main focus of the paper is the investigation of the social potential of local renewable energy utilization in a rural peripheral region in Hungary. Public acceptance of biomass-based renewable energy sources can be crucial for rural communities in realization of their sustainable development strategy. The research area was Koppany Valley Natur Park 2000, a microregion of 10 settlements located in the South Transdanubian region. This microregion is characterized by poor and depressive socioeconomic and demographical conditions, despite its significant natural resources. The microregion’s complex development strategy includes the utilization of local resources of renewable energy. Local population survey (n = 310) was conducted (in May 2018) on local biomass potential, knowledge, and attitudes of the local stakeholders in the microregion. Multinomial logistic regression model estimates the acceptance of population, explanatory variables are categorical demographical (personal) factors and specific factors (based on answers of respondents). Trust in local authorities, knowledge on biomass in general and on specific technologies, as well as the education level of rural inhabitants are significant factors in supporting biomass plant establishment. Further, the group and characteristics of acceptance groups that the local development strategy may consider were defined.

Highlights

Through national energy and climate plans, EU member states commit to meeting a voluntary share of renewable energy by 2030, and, between 2020 and 2030, to follow a national trajectory [1]
The present study focuses on local biomass as local resource and public acceptance and potential of biomass in a specific rural community
We found that knowledge of biomass and knowledge on energy crops correlate mayor’s decision (Table 1)

Summary

Introduction

Through national energy and climate plans, EU member states commit to meeting a voluntary share of renewable energy by 2030, and, between 2020 and 2030, to follow a national trajectory [1]. Promotion of renewable energy sources (RES) and energy efficiency (EE) incentives are among the main strategic components for the fulfilment of the emission reduction targets [2]. Regional alternative energy [3] sources of renewable energy production is available locally, may contribute to lessening the rural dependence on the national grid [4]. Authors concluded that public acceptance is one of the main factors influencing local utilization of renewable energy. The role of local inhabitants in cocreating knowledge, innovation, and technology dedicated to the implementation of renewable energy projects is increasing

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