An integrated fuzzy evaluation of photovoltaic systems adoption barriers in rural island communities of developing economies

Abstract

Among the renewable energy technologies that address sustainability issues in energy consumption, photovoltaic (PV) systems are found most applicable in rural island communities. However, due to several interplay factors, the adoption of PV systems in such areas faces barriers. In this regard, this study presents a thorough analysis of these barriers using an integrated analytic modeling approach. The fuzzy Delphi method was used to reduce the 85 barriers initially sourced from the literature to 35 significant barriers. To draw a holistic understanding of the problem, the transitive relationships of the identified barriers were examined using the fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method. Findings suggest that insufficient policies and regulatory frameworks, research and development, education, and training were among the most crucial barriers that impact other barriers. To address these barriers, five policy measures are outlined that may have synergistic effects in the increased adoption of solar PV systems, including the inclusion of local government units in energy planning and activities, incentivizing enhanced cooperation initiatives, supporting technology transfer programs, development of battery energy storage industry, and implementing community solar programs. The analysis of these barriers in the context of a developing country provides useful insights to policy- and decision-makers. Other developing economies with minor differences in socio-economic and political makeup may consider the policy measures to augment solar PV system adoption in their rural island communities.