Public perception of residential solar energy in Minnesota's urban areas

Abstract

With virtually no solid, liquid, or gas by products, and a stable and ever-present source, pho- tovoltaic (PV or solar) has the attractive benefits of reducing a home's carbon footprint, harm- ful emission levels, and energy costs. With increasing concerns over energy cost and environ- mental harm, many homeowners are choosing to install solar panels. While the costs of solar panel installation and ownership have steadily declined over the last decade, there has been a concern that there has not been a comparable increase in solar panel implementation on resi- dential buildings. This study gathered and analyzed data from urban residents of Minnesota on their overall perception towards different aspects of solar energy and specific factors that are driving them away from solar. The main findings show that while solar is by far the most popular renewable energy generating method for homeowners, the perceived costs are an ob- stacle to adoption, as well as the perception that it would negatively impact the dwelling's aesthetics.