Determining the Factors Affecting Filipinos’ Acceptance of the Use of Renewable Energies: A Pro-Environmental Planned Behavior Model

Abstract

Renewable energies (RE) are naturally replenishable and sustainable energy sources. Solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, biomass, and ocean energy are among these sources. This study sought to determine the factors influencing the acceptance of Filipinos’ renewable energy utilization using the Pro-Environmental Planned Behavior (PEPB) model. A questionnaire survey was disseminated to obtain the required information and ascertain the variables affecting the behavioral intention of Filipinos in accepting RE. In examining the results, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was utilized with Partial Least Squares SEM (PLS-SEM) to identify other existing relationships. Findings revealed that Perceived Authority Support (PAS) is the most significant variable affecting Perceived Environmental Concern (PEC), inducing an indirect effect on the Behavioral Intention (BI) of Filipinos. The factor with the highest significance affecting BI is the Subjective Norm (SN). Accordingly, such results suggest that the government should implement incentive-based strategies, while considering the impact of SN, by gaining the public’s favor on the transition from traditional energy sources to green alternatives. In addition, educational programs and campaigns may be administered to spread awareness and fill in information gaps among Filipino citizens.