Residential Rooftop Photovoltaic Adoption Using a Sequential Mixed Methods Approach in Qatar

Abstract

Global warming and climate degradation are critical global issues that influenced the rise of renewable energy sources adoption. Photovoltaic systems are the predominant sustainable and renewable energy source option, which can be deployed on top of residential rooftops on a large scale. However, the success of residential rooftop photovoltaic system adoption depends on multiple barriers, such as public acceptance and perception, market readiness, and supportive governmental policies. While most studies focus on either the customer perception or the market penetration aspects, this study aims to use a combinational approach. Through a mixed method approach, the goals of this study are to: (1) Complete a quantitative analysis on customer acceptance and perception of rooftop photovoltaic systems; (2) Perform a qualitative analysis on the potential of residential rooftop photovoltaic market penetration and the extent of supportive governmental policies; (3) Utilize the mix method approach results to answer adoption hypothesis. A few countries already have strong residential rooftop photovoltaic applications; however, many countries are still at an early stage of photovoltaic system adoption, where this study can be useful. This research uses Qatar as a prime case study in developing the study framework.