Book Title: Advanced Studies in Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation (ASMRI)
Chief Editors: Dr. Jagdish Kumar Sahu and Dr. Krishna Ashutoshbhai Vyas
Associate Editors: Dr. N. Ramesh Chandra Srikanth and Dr. Lourdu Vesna J
Co-Editors: Dr. Aarti Sharma and Dr. Pushpa Mamoria
ISBN: 978-93-7183-010-2
Chapter: 3
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/745/3
Author: Asha R Nair
Abstract
The increasing cost of conventional electricity has encouraged households to explore alternative and sustainable energy sources such as solar energy systems. Household consumers are increasingly considering rooftop solar systems as a long-term solution for reducing electricity expenses and ensuring energy security. The present study examines the role of electricity cost concerns in household solar energy adoption among residential consumers in South Kerala. The study mainly focuses on consumer perceptions regarding electricity bill burden, expected cost savings, long-term financial benefits, and the influence of electricity cost concerns on solar adoption decisions. Primary data were collected from 200 residential consumers across five districts of South Kerala using a structured questionnaire. The findings reveal that rising electricity expenses, expectation of long-term savings, and concerns regarding future electricity tariff increases significantly influence household solar energy adoption decisions. The study highlights that economic concerns remain one of the strongest motivating factors encouraging households to invest in solar energy systems. The findings of the study may contribute to a better understanding of consumer financial behaviour towards renewable energy adoption.
Keywords: Solar energy adoption, Electricity cost concerns, Rooftop solar systems, Household consumers, Renewable energy, South Kerala