The Drivers and Barriers of the Solar Water Heating Entrepreneurial System: A Cost–Benefit Analysis

Abstract

Sustainable development objectives place a high priority on entrepreneurship and renewable energy. Supporting entrepreneurial activities in the renewable energy industry can provide economic growth and employment to accomplish the Sustainable Development Goals Agenda 2030. Solar water heating systems can provide clear benefits for both the environment and economic growth. There is a gap in the literature regarding the study of the factors hindering or driving the development of the solar water heating system industry. This study aims to investigate the solar water heating system industry’s challenges and attempts to define the drivers to further develop the industry. Thus, solar water heating entrepreneurship parameters can be identified. Additionally, energy savings and carbon dioxide emissions were calculated for the region to raise awareness among consumers. This study used the qualitative analysis method through semi-structured interviews with 40 business owners in Adana/Turkey. The findings showed that the industry has administrative, production, political, and economic issues; there is a need for economic support and expanding education and control mechanisms. Also, the payback period is 1.63~3.27 years for a solar water heating system and this system prevents 800.75 kg of CO2 emission. The study has implications for policy-making, practice, scientific research, and the SDGs Agenda 2030.