3 Journal ARDA 3179+paper AL
3 Journal ARDA 3179+paper AL
2025, 10(31s)
e-ISSN: 2468-4376
https://www.jisem-journal.com/ Research Article
The installation of rooftop solar panels is a vital aspect of smart city development, promoting the
Received: 26 Dec 2024
shift to affordable and clean energy. However, achieving widespread public participation in this
Revised: 14 Feb 2025 effort faces significant challenges. This research examines the hindrances in adopting rooftop
solar PV systems by residents of Patna, the capital city of Bihar, India. Understanding these
Accepted: 22 Feb 2025
barriers is crucial to encouraging public involvement and accelerating the integration of
renewable energy solutions. If Patna can overcome these obstacles, it will greatly enhance
sustainable urban development, reduce fossil fuel consumption, and improve energy security.
Furthermore, the adoption of rooftop solar will contribute to pollution reduction and support the
natural ecosystem. This research focuses on resident-driven insights, which are key to the future
success of smart cities. The methodology involves identifying barriers to public participation
through a questionnaire survey conducted among 200 residents of Patna. Data adequacy was
established using statistical tools, and factor analysis was utilized to evaluate the identified
variables, supplemented by a correlation matrix for further examination. The study highlights
the necessity of collaboration among government agencies, energy providers, and the public to
foster a cooperative and supportive environment. The findings reveal three primary barriers
relevant to Patna that could be addressed through public participation. This research aims to
drive sustainable urban transformation by tackling the challenges to public engagement in
rooftop solar PV adoption. By identifying and mitigating these obstacles through information
systems, the study will offer valuable insights applicable not only in Patna but also in other cities,
facilitating the accelerated integration of renewable energy solutions.
Keywords: Rooftop Solar P.V., Public participation, Renewable energy, Sustainable power
sources, Information System
INTRODUCTION
As the world pushes toward more sustainable and maintainable energy sources, there has been a comparing ascend
in interest in introducing sunlight-based power on homes and organizations. Advancing sustainable power
innovations is turning into an inexorably pivotal part of metropolitan advancement as urban areas endeavour to
become better and harmless to the ecosystem. Renewable energy sources are sustainable energy sources, which will
not only contribute through the energy sector to help countries become energy-secure nations but it will also help to
abate global warming by preventing temperature rise [1][2]. As discussed by Singh (2020), in the current global
energy scenario, renewable energy sources are gaining increasing significance. Efforts in research and development,
application, and commercialization of viable renewable energy technologies are growing. A key technology in this
regard is rooftop solar photovoltaic technology, which plays a vital role in addressing the growing energy demands of
urban areas worldwide. [3]
1.1. Solar Scenario around the world
Two of the most common types of solar power systems are photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP).
Instead of using photovoltaic cells, which convert light directly into electricity, concentrated solar power (CSP) uses
mirrors to concentrate sunlight into a pillar that warms a liquid in a collector. CSP assumes a little part in the solar
Copyright © 2024 by Author/s and Licensed by JISEM. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which
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277 J INFORM SYSTEMS ENG, 10(31s)
power area, and PV is supposed to overpower it.[4] Just 512 GW of solar limit had been added overall as of the finish
of 2018. The general capability of solar energy on Earth is far more prominent than this. More than 22 nations, PV
as of now meets over 1% of yearly power interest. Italy (8.6%), Greece (8.3%), and Germany (8.2%) lead the globe in
absolute electricity yield from photovoltaics (PV).[4]. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technology has emerged as a rapidly
growing renewable energy source with significant potential to transform the global energy landscape. Studies indicate
that PV could become the largest and most cost-effective energy source in the mid to long-term, with projected global
capacity requirements of 27.4-42 TWp. [5]. Despite its abundant availability and declining costs, PV adoption
scenarios in long-term energy models have often been conservative [6].
1.2. The Benefits of PV Rooftop Solar
The advantages of solar photovoltaics (PV) are (a) the absence of ozone-depleting material emissions, (b) quiet
operation, (c) a system lifespan of around 25 years, (d) low maintenance costs, and (e) ease of installation. The
primary benefits of solar electricity have been found through analysis of solar energy programmes. There would be
no increase in greenhouse gases or other toxins, (b) degraded land could be restored, (c) lesser transmission lines
would be needed, (d) water quality would improve, (e) energy independence would increase, (f) energy supply would
be upgraded, leading to greater energy security, and (g) rural and remote areas of developing countries would be
reached more quickly. A study conducted in Hong Kong found that doing so will reduce ozone-depleting substances'
radiation and other harmful toxins [7].
Wind power might have ascended to noticeable quality in India first, yet solar power enjoys a few benefits. Solar
energy has expanded accessibility and unwavering quality. Another review led in India found that PV enjoys many
benefits, including (a) the nation gets extremely high solar radiation, with day to day occurrence going from 4 to 7
kWh/m2 and 2300 to 3200 hours of daylight each year, (b) low minor expense of age, (c) the capacity to increment
energy security by expanding supply, (d) the decrease of import reliance, (e) the moderation of fuel value
unpredictability, and (f) the potential job it can play in encouraging territorial monetary development. A review
distributed in Tajikistan underlined the potential for neighbourhood economies and economical improvement to
profit from the utilization of solar photovoltaic (PV) power in the country's far off uneven districts. There are many
variables adding to solar PV's expanded prevalence in Bangladesh.[8]. Since there are no moving parts, no extra
assets (such water or fuel), and insignificant support is required. Solar photovoltaics (PV) in Hong Kong are
essentially determined by worries about environmental change and natural risks. Solar power is the most
encouraging elective energy choice presently that anyone could hope to find. San Francisco, a city in the US, has a
scope of 967-2,110 kWh/m2 in yearly solar radiation got by structures. The whole nation of Lebanon could be
provided with power (around 2.3 GW), as per a review done there. All it would take is to use 12.5% of the absolute
housetop surfaces of the private structures. That implies we can decommission all petroleum product power plants
right away. The potential for solar power is colossal, and the energy it produces is completely maintainable. An
examination from Denmark proposes that worldwide ozone harming substance discharges may be diminished by
10.2% from their 2000 levels continuously 2050. This change to environmentally friendly power will valuably affect
the economy and society overall, particularly as far as expanded nearby work age and diminished medical services
costs.[9]
It was determined that a 5 MW solar PV establishment in Saudi Arabia would deflect 914 tons of CO2 discharges
every year. There would be yearly reserve funds of 7025 and 5944 tons of GHG if a 5 MW solar PV office were to
supplant diesel and gaseous petrol-based energy age, separately, in Oman. As the temperature of the Earth rises, one
more benefit of housetop PV turns out to be more significant. Less energy is expected for cooling structures.
researchers in the US found that by introducing PV on roofs, top burden request may be diminished.[10]. This finding
was upheld by extra exploration directed in Canada. In India, analysts used PC models to establish that PV systems
can lessen cooling costs by as much as 90%. Involving PV applications in structures was found to diminish
conventional energy use as well as the ''top'' power age from petroleum products like coal and oil, as per research
from Greece. The service organization gets a good deal on development and support costs, as well as transmission
and circulation misfortunes, while a structure produces its own power utilizing solar boards put on its rooftop. The
utilization of solar photovoltaics (PV) is a harmless to the ecosystem method for providing the developing
requirement for power in present day human progress[11].Benefits include (a) no contamination from ozone-
damaging substance radiations or pernicious waste age like radioactive waste, (b) as this is a type of dispersed
electrical age, collection of this reduces dependence and pressure on people in general or state grids, thereby
278 J INFORM SYSTEMS ENG, 10(31s)
removing the risk of power blackouts and over-loads generally, (c) it helps in open energy security, and (d) it gives
reasonable and long-term financial improvement opportunities for a number of different parties. Experts in the
United States discovered that the surplus energy produced by solar panels reduced the strain on electric grids in the
middle of the year, when demand is highest and utilities are forced to buy large amounts of power at premium rates
to keep up with demand.[12]. The progress to solar energy, as per a couple of specialists, is helping states
extraordinarily in satisfying government orders to cut ozone harming substance emanations. Many individuals are
finding work in the solar PV industry [12].
Research has demonstrated the way that introducing cool rooftops can diminish a city's every day cooling energy
utilization by 13-14%, and introducing housetop solar photovoltaic boards can lessen it by another 8-11%.[13] Extra
advantages from power age are not represented in the previously mentioned benefits. The outcomes showed that
either material methodology could be utilized, which would valuably affect metropolitan life. Esteem is added by solar
photovoltaic systems since they diminish the requirement for fossil fuels.[13]. Nearly 30% of Seoul's yearly power
request might be fulfilled by broad establishment of housetop solar PV systems, as per a review led in South Korea.
While rising urbanization all over the planet is delivering colossal expansion in energy utilization across the
significant urban areas in general, the exploration featured the need of housetop solar PV. In China, generally 18% of
the overall populace lives in the main 35 urban communities. These urban areas are responsible for 40% of the total
energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions in the United States. It can credit generally 67% of worldwide
energy utilization and 71% of CO2 discharges from energy-related outflows to metropolitan regions on the off chance
that we take a worldwide viewpoint [14]. Consequently, the drawn-out feasibility of significant urban communities
relies upon measures like expanding the extent of power provided by roof solar PV systems. Housetop solar
photovoltaic systems can supply 30% of Ontario, Canada's yearly energy interest. The mix of falling capital expenses
and expanding discharges decrease objectives for the power area makes solar photovoltaic (PV) an appealing choice
for the fate of power systems [14].
MATERIAL AND METHODS
The research methodology had been comprehensively explored to examine the barriers to public support for rooftop
solar adoption in Patna, with both qualitative and quantitative approaches having been utilized to gain a detailed
understanding of the factors shaping individuals' attitudes toward solar energy. The data collection strategy had
included obtaining information from various sources such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Surveys had been
distributed to a sample of the target population to gather quantitative data, while qualitative insights had been
captured from key stakeholders through interviews and focus groups. The target population for this study had
consisted of residents of Patna who had the potential to adopt rooftop solar energy systems. For data analysis, both
qualitative and quantitative data had been analyzed using appropriate statistical tools and qualitative analysis
techniques. Quantitative data had been analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data
had been analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns in the responses. Overall, the
mixed research methodology employed in this study had allowed for a comprehensive examination of the hindrances
to rooftop solar adoption in Patna, and valuable insights had been provided for policymakers and stakeholders in the
renewable energy sector.
2.1 The site
Patna is the capital of Bihar located in India, desires to join the positions of the "shrewd urban areas" by taking on
state of the art advances and eco-accommodating arrangements. Distinguishing the hindrances that obstruct public
commitment to this drive is one of the essential difficulties in the execution of roof top solar powered chargers in
Patna. Public support is crucial for the effective execution of shrewd city projects since it cultivates a feeling of pride
and energizes local area contribution. By including occupants in arranging processes and empowering them to
partake in supportable drives, urban areas can possibly make seriously inviting and versatile networks. However,
challenges such as initial investment costs, grid integration, technical expertise, and regulatory hurdles may need to
be addressed to fully realize the rooftop solar PV potential in Patna. Collaborative efforts involving government
agencies, solar companies, financial institutions, and local communities can play a vital role in promoting solar
energy adoption and fostering a greener future for the city. Patna, being located in the eastern part of India,
experiences a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Patna receives ample solar radiation throughout the year,
due to its geographical location. Being close to the Tropic of Cancer, it experiences a higher intensity of sunlight
compared to regions farther from the equator. This makes it conducive for harnessing solar energy through roof top
279 J INFORM SYSTEMS ENG, 10(31s)
solar photovoltaic systems in Patna. Significant Factors contributing to this roof top solar potential include following
as shown in Table 1.
Table 1 Potential of integration of Roof Top PV Panels in Patna
1 The city receives a high amount of solar insolation, which is crucial for the efficient generation of solar
power.
2 Many residential, commercial, and industrial buildings in Patna have suitable roof spaces that can
accommodate solar panels.
3 Various government schemes and incentives, such as subsidies, net metering policies, and tax benefits,
encourage the adoption of rooftop solar PV systems. These initiatives make it financially viable for
individuals and businesses to invest in solar energy.
4 Solar PV systems help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to
sustainable development.
As per the existing land use map residential area comprise of 49.56 sqkm which is 47.55% of the total urban area,
Patna receive more than 5.25 Kwh/sqm/day as shown in Figure 1. Patna Area had a population of 23.90 lakhs as per
the 2001 Census while the PMC had a population of17 lakh (2011 Census). A stated in PATNA MASTER PLAN-2031
the growth of population in the PUA has increased rapidly in 1991-2001.Thus, using the 1991-2001 decadal growth
rate as an indicator, the population of the PUA is expected to be 22.50 lakhs in the year 2011 and 28.01 lakhs in the
year 2021.[15]
Figure 1: Annual average Global insolation Figure 2: Solar PV Analysis of Patna, India (source:
map of India showing the isohels and solar https://profilesolar.com)
hotspots, Source; Energy Alternatives India
and reliable sources of energy. A report on energy development resolutions by the Government of Bihar (2017)
outlines that the state government has set a target to provide 24-hour electricity connections to all rural and urban
households by 2018-19. Achieving this ambitious goal will necessitate a comprehensive transformation of the power
sector in Bihar, including harnessing the state's substantial renewable energy potential [2].
To study Patna residents' knowledge of, and sentiments towards, sun powered chargers for homes, a survey will be
circulated. To additionally comprehend the obstacles according to numerous viewpoints, we will direct inside and
out meetings and centre gatherings with key partners such civil specialists, energy specialists, and local area
individuals. The aftereffects of this study are expected to give light on the essential factors that have eased back the
boundless utilization of sun powered chargers on Patna's roofs. These outcomes can assist city organizers and
authorities with contriving compelling designs to eliminate obstructions to public help for sustainable power. Patna
will actually want to cut fossil fuel byproducts, increment energy security, and help to the city's reasonable turn of
events on the off chance that these snags can be survived.[2]
The implications of this study extend beyond Patna, serving as a model for other cities facing similar challenges in
promoting rooftop solar panels and encouraging citizen participation in sustainable urban development. This
research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence and actionable strategies to
enhance public engagement in smart city initiatives. It also emphasizes the crucial role of collaboration between
government agencies, energy providers, and the public in achieving sustainable and smart urban growth, highlighting
the central importance of residents in this process.
2.2 Research Design
The review plan had incorporated stages, including information gathering, analysis, and interpretation. Research
goals had been focused on while a strategy had been developed. The objective of this research had been to identify
the factors driving the popularity of residential solar PV systems in India, with a hybrid approach that had combined
qualitative and quantitative methods being employed. The objective of this exploration had been to identify the
variables contributing to the increasing popularity of solar PV systems installed on residential buildings. Through a
combination of literature review and on-site interviews with current and potential users, a total of 39 factors had
been identified. These factors had highlighted the primary barriers to adopting solar PV systems through public
participation. To isolate the most significant factors driving the rapid rise in rooftop solar PV's popularity,
quantitative data had been collected using interviews and questionnaires focused on these identified factors.
Statistical tools had then been employed for further analysis. A scale had been developed to evaluate the significance
of each variable, followed by factor analysis to determine which factors had been considered most critical. The
adequacy of the data was demonstrated through statistical analysis, evidenced by a Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) score
of 0.93, which indicated excellent sampling efficiency. The Sampling Efficiency (SE) of each of the 39 identified
factors was evaluated using the KMO scale, confirming that the data were sufficient for further analysis. To explore
the relationships and patterns among these variables, factor analysis was conducted on the results obtained from the
questionnaire. This method effectively reduced the complexity of the dataset, allowing for the identification of a
smaller set of underlying factors that influenced the adoption of solar PV systems. The application of factor analysis
not only streamlined the data but also enhanced the understanding of the dynamics at play among the identified
barriers to public participation.
The sampling frame for this study consists of buildings in Patna that have installed PV systems on their rooftops.
Despite receiving ample solar radiation, the adoption of rooftop solar PV has been modest in many regions, mirroring
trends seen in most states across India. It is intriguing to explore why these areas have not fully embraced rooftop
solar PV. Additionally, understanding who the early adopters are and what motivated them to switch to solar panels
is equally compelling. This investigation also includes respondents who have the capacity to install rooftop solar PV
but have not yet done so, aiding in the identification of key factors influencing adoption. This population encompasses
a diverse range of individuals, including homeowners, business owners, policymakers, and community leaders.
Considering Patna's large population, a sample of around 200 respondents has been selected using stratified
sampling techniques. This sample size found to be adequate to reflect the diverse perspectives of the target population
while ensuring statistical validity. The preferred localities selected for the study include partially government
quarters, owners of newly constructed apartments, and individual residential properties situated in and around
Bailey Road, Patna, as well as areas in Saguna More and new developments in Danapur. A few selected sites for the
study include mixed-use establishments such as clinics with residential facilities, nursing homes, and stores that also
281 J INFORM SYSTEMS ENG, 10(31s)
provide residential accommodations, as the availability of PV board installations is quite rare in solely residential
buildings.
Figure 3:Location of studied area (authors interpretation extracted from google map)
The sample size for this study was set at 200 individuals who have installed rooftop solar PV systems, aiming to
understand the barriers to integrating rooftop PV in the studied area. The identification of the number of factors and
the relevant concepts will determine the required sample size for conducting a factor analysis. According to Comrey
and Lee (1992), sample sizes of 100 (fair), 200 (good), 500 (excellent), and 1000 (outstanding) are rated on a scale
from 100 (poor) to 1000 (excellent). Finding the appropriateness of the data at the time of conducting the factor
analysis is considered more critical than determining the sample size beforehand. To investigate potential variability
among the factors due to hidden sources, the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) test was performed to assess data adequacy.
The KMO score serves as a useful measure of sample adequacy; a score below 0.05 suggests unsuitability for factor
analysis. Given the limited uptake of rooftop solar PV, the researcher confirmed that a sample size of 200 was
sufficient for a robust factor analysis. Additionally, the results of Bartlett's test of sphericity further indicated the
adequacy of the factors for factor analysis, supporting the validity of the sample size chosen.
A poll survey had been employed as a methodical and efficient technique for data collection. A set of predefined
questions had been designed to gather specific information or opinions from a targeted group of respondents. The
survey had been structured to ensure consistency in the data collection process, allowing for the analysis of responses
across a broad sample. The survey had begun with a series of demographic questions designed to gather detailed
information about each responder, followed by 39 questions regarding characteristics that had been determined to
be significant. At the end of the survey, participants had been given the opportunity to provide input on any additional
relevant topics. In the subsequent survey, after several demographic and personality questions, respondents had been
asked to rate their level of understanding or disagreement with statements presented on five different measures. A
span scale had been selected because it allowed for more rigorous statistical testing. In the first survey, participants
had been asked to rate each question on a scale from one to seven, with one indicating the least critical and seven the
most critical. A response of 1 to question 2 had indicated disagreement with statement 7 as much as other options.
Pilot testing had been utilized to refine the phrasing and wording of the poll and to eliminate any ambiguity in the
responses. The clarity and ease of answering the survey's questions had been verified to ensure that they had been
straightforward.
RESULT
It has been observed that the city of Patna is gradually adopting alternative energy sources, shifting towards
sustainable and renewable energy solutions. Insights from the pilot survey interviews revealed that individuals who
have installed rooftop solar PV systems are generally more aware of alternative energy options, government schemes,
and economic benefits. They are also more likely to be in contact with vendors supplying solar panels. Among the
200 samples surveyed, the majority of installations—around 70—were found in small residential apartments, while
the rest were in nursing homes with residential facilities, clinics, and large independent houses as shown in Figure 4.
However, it was also noted that some of these installations are poorly managed, with a few in a state of disrepair or
incomplete.
282 J INFORM SYSTEMS ENG, 10(31s)
from potential power tariff increases, current high electricity tariffs, and the high return on investment. The
availability of an attractive feed-in tariff, low installation and operating costs, and government subsidies all make the
initial investment more appealing. Attractive tax incentives and easy access to financing further reduce financial
barriers. The clarity over long-term feed-in tariffs and longer investment horizons also enhances the financial
viability, making solar energy an appealing and cost-effective option for many homeowners. The third factor, Three
Pros for Nature, underscores the significant environmental benefits of solar energy. It emphasizes how solar
power contributes to sustainability by reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly practices. Key aspects
include the availability of unlimited electricity, heightened environmental awareness, and the efficient use of
resources as solar energy doesn't require additional resources like water. Furthermore, solar panels help reduce a
building's cooling load by keeping the roof cool, ultimately benefiting the environment. Solar systems also aid in
improved peak load control, showcasing their ability to contribute positively to both the environment and energy
efficiency. The 4th factor, Social Image, highlights how the installation of rooftop solar PV systems can enhance
a homeowner's social image. It contributes to creating an "Environmental Concern Image," aligning with global
sustainability trends. The aesthetics of solar panel installation also play a crucial role, as homeowners may be
concerned about how the appearance of the panels affects their property’s visual appeal. This factor emphasizes the
importance of aligning solar adoption with personal and societal values, promoting both environmental
responsibility and social status. The 5th factor, identified as Trialability, plays a crucial role in the adoption of
rooftop solar PV systems. Trialability refers to the ease with which individuals can experiment with or test the
technology before fully committing to it. The ability to start small-scale experimental projects allows potential
adopters to assess the practicality, effectiveness, and benefits of rooftop solar PV in a low-risk environment. This
hands-on experience helps mitigate uncertainty and builds confidence in the technology. Additionally, information
sharing serves as a key enabler in this process. When users share their experiences and insights, it not only helps
others to understand the installation process but also provides practical guidance on overcoming common challenges.
Lastly, the ability to be trained highlights the importance of education and skill-building opportunities for users.
Ensuring that individuals are properly trained in the operation and maintenance of solar systems is vital for fostering
successful adoption and long-term sustainability. Knowledge and training empower individuals to manage and
troubleshoot solar installations effectively, contributing to the widespread acceptance and growth of rooftop solar PV
adoption.
Table 6: Factors for identified Variables
CONCLUSION
To identify the barriers in adopting solar PV in the context of Patna, Rogers's diffusion theory provides a valuable
framework (19). This theory outlines several factors that affect the adoption process of innovations, including solar
energy systems. Based on the analysis, five key factors influencing the adoption of solar PV in Patna can be concluded:
Relative Advantage, Compatibility, Complexity, Trialability, and Observability.
Relative Advantage refers to the perceived benefits of solar PV over traditional energy sources. If individuals believe
that solar energy offers significant advantages, such as cost savings and environmental benefits, they are more likely
to adopt it. Compatibility considers how well solar PV systems align with existing values, experiences, and needs of
the community in Patna. If solar technology is seen as compatible with the local context and lifestyles, adoption rates
may increase. Complexity addresses the perceived difficulty associated with understanding and using solar PV
systems. If the technology is viewed as complex or challenging to implement, potential adopters may be discouraged
from making the switch. Trialability refers to the opportunity for individuals to experiment with solar PV systems
before fully committing to them. If potential users can test the technology in a limited capacity, they may feel more
confident in their decision to adopt it. Observability involves the visibility of solar PV systems and their benefits to
others in the community. When individuals can see the positive outcomes experienced by early adopters, such as
reduced energy bills and increased sustainability, it can encourage wider acceptance of the technology. By examining
these five factors, it becomes clear that they play a crucial role in influencing the adoption of solar PV in Patna,
highlighting the barriers that need to be addressed to enhance the uptake of renewable energy solutions in the region.
289 J INFORM SYSTEMS ENG, 10(31s)
In the context of identifying barriers to the utilization of solar PV in Patna, three of Rogers's five factors—Relative
Advantage, Complexity, and Trialability—can be particularly justified as significant challenges.
Relative Advantage: The perceived benefits of adopting solar PV technology compared to conventional energy sources
play a crucial role in its adoption. In Patna, if potential users do not recognize substantial advantages, such as cost
savings on electricity bills, environmental benefits, or energy independence, they may be less inclined to invest in
solar systems. This lack of awareness or understanding regarding the relative advantages of solar energy can hinder
its widespread acceptance.
Complexity: The complexity of solar PV systems can pose a barrier to their utilization in Patna. If potential users
perceive the technology as complicated, difficult to install, or challenging to maintain, they may be deterred from
adopting it. This perception can stem from a lack of technical knowledge, fear of the unknown, or concerns about
navigating the installation process. Simplifying the technology and providing clear, accessible information could help
alleviate these concerns.
Trialability: The ability to experiment with solar PV systems on a smaller scale before making a full commitment is
another critical factor influencing adoption. In Patna, if potential users do not have opportunities to trial solar
technology, they may feel hesitant to invest in a system without firsthand experience of its benefits and functionality.
Programs that allow for pilot installations or community solar initiatives could enhance trialability, enabling users to
gain confidence in the technology before fully committing.
Factors of Adoption: Identifying the barriers to adopting solar PV in Patna is essential for future planning and
public participation in sustainable city policies. These barriers can inform proposals for similar initiatives in other
regions. Based on Rogers' diffusion of innovations theory, factor analysis identified five key motivators for adopting
rooftop solar PV in India: complexity, investor appeal, environmental benefits, peer acceptance, and trialability. The
study found that complexity, relative advantage, and trialability are crucial in Patna's adoption model. Unlike many
new technologies, rooftop solar PV can coexist with grid power, which may explain the lack of focus on compatibility
and observability. Key adoption drivers in Patna are complexity and financial attractiveness. The uptake of rooftop
solar PV could increase if obstacles related to installation and maintenance are reduced. While government schemes
290 J INFORM SYSTEMS ENG, 10(31s)
have made financial incentives available, their impact has been mixed. To improve the economic appeal of solar PV,
new, more accessible schemes should be introduced. Addressing these barriers through effective policy frameworks
is vital for encouraging solar PV adoption in Patna and promoting public participation in smart city initiatives.
Application of Information Systems to overcome the Bariers: To mitigate the barriers of Relative
Advantage, Complexity, and Trialability in the adoption of rooftop solar PV in India, several specific digital media
and web systems are currently prevalent in the country. These systems play a crucial role in promoting awareness,
simplifying the adoption process, and allowing for trialability of solar PV technology.
For Relative Advantage, digital campaigns and awareness platforms such as the Solar Energy Corporation of India
(SECI) and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) provide detailed comparisons of solar PV costs,
savings, and environmental benefits. These platforms present clear data on how solar energy outperforms traditional
energy sources, including case studies, success stories, and financial savings calculators. Additionally, solar rooftop
calculator apps like Tata Power Solar and Sunking enable users to estimate the cost savings and environmental
benefits of adopting solar PV systems based on their energy consumption patterns and geographical location. These
tools help potential adopters understand the relative advantages of switching to solar energy, making the decision
more appealing and informed.
The complexity as barrier could be addressed with digital platforms in India. Digital platforms like MYSUN and
Solarize India simplify rooftop solar PV adoption by offering end-to-end solutions, including site assessments,
installation, and maintenance. They provide online consultations, interactive guides, and access to certified installers
for smooth integration. Additionally, platforms like The "Model Solar Village" initiative, part of the PM-Surya Ghar:
Muft Bijli Yojana, has been establish one solar-powered village per district in India, promoting solar energy adoption
and energy self-reliance for village communities. It offers educational content, tutorials, FAQs, and live chat support,
making it easier for users to understand and adopt solar technology without feeling overwhelmed by its complexity.
To overcome the Trialability barrier, platforms like Sustainable Solutions India and Oorjan Cleantech promote pilot
projects and community solar programs. These initiatives allow users to participate in collective solar projects or
install small-scale systems at reduced costs, giving them a firsthand experience of the technology and reducing the
perceived risk. Additionally, tools like Solarify offer virtual simulations, enabling users to visualize how solar panels
would perform on their roofs based on geographical data and energy consumption patterns. This trial-like experience
allows users to experiment with different system configurations before committing to full-scale installation.
The adoption of information and digital systems can play a crucial role in removing the barriers to rooftop solar PV
adoption, facilitating the successful integration of sustainable solutions. By leveraging digital platforms, potential
users can access real-time data, simplified installation processes, and educational resources, addressing complexities
and promoting understanding. Information systems can also provide financial tools, allowing users to assess cost
savings and available subsidies, thus overcoming financial barriers. Additionally, virtual simulations and pilot
projects can help users experience the technology firsthand, reducing the perceived risk and encouraging wider
adoption. Ultimately, these systems enhance accessibility, support, and awareness, driving the growth of rooftop
solar PV as a sustainable energy solution.
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