Challenges Associated with Implementation of Solar Energy in Ghana
Abstract:
This
study investigates the challenges hindering the adoption of solar energy in
Ghana, with the aim of improving understanding of the barriers to sustainable
solar energy use. Most research in this area has concentrated primarily on
economic, technical, and environmental factors, neglecting the sociocultural
and psychological dimensions influencing solar energy adoption. This study
therefore aims to bridge this knowledge gap by examining the cultural,
psychological, and behavioral challenges affecting solar energy implementation
in Ghana. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design which enabled the
study to provide valuable insights into the prevailing issues influencing solar
energy implementation across selected cities including Accra which is the
capital city of Ghana. A stratified random sampling technique and a purposive
sampling technique was used to select the desired sample size of 200.
Descriptive statistics such as mean, median, standard deviation, and frequency
distributions were used to summarize the data. The analysis also used
Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) due to its robust
statistical and visualization capabilities. The findings reveal that although
the initial cost of solar installations poses a significant obstacle, long-term
benefits such as lower electricity expenses and positive environmental impacts
are widely recognised. The research highlights a strong link between public
perception and the willingness to adopt solar energy. Favorable attitudes and
greater awareness correspond to higher adoption rates, while negative
perceptions discourage uptake. This demonstrates the crucial role of public
education and perception management in promoting solar energy integration. Key
challenges identified include high upfront costs, limited information,
technological difficulties, insufficient government support, cultural
resistance, and inconsistent energy supply. Addressing these barriers requires
comprehensive strategies that incorporate financial incentives (such as subsidies
and tax reductions), awareness campaigns, enhanced government involvement,
infrastructure improvements, and community engagement initiatives. Overall, the
study underscores that improving public awareness and perception, alongside
targeted policy measures, can create an enabling environment for widespread
solar energy adoption. These insights offer valuable guidance for policymakers
and researchers aiming to advance renewable energy development in Ghana and
beyond.
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