Perceived Values in Consumption of Solar Pv Energy- a Case of Households in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Renewable energy has proven to be one of the solutions that scholars and researchers have proposed as a tenable measure in the management of climate change while promoting development. Efforts have, therefore, been put forth to make sure that these energy sources are viable. Solar PV energy has been no different. Over the past decades, these renewable energy sources have been on a steady innovation path that has seen them achieve viability status. Kenya is celebrated as one of the countries that have recorded some of the highest levels of renewable energy consumption in Africa. Solar PV energy is one of those that have seen a doubled consumption rate in the last decade. Despite this, a lot of what is driving this consumption is yet to be known. Empirical evidence of the consumption of solar PV in Kenya is still scarce. This study looks to build on this knowledge by analyzing the characteristics of those who consume solar PV energy, the level of consumption of solar PV energy and the perceptions that consumers have that may influence them to buy solar PV products. The author used a sample of 166 respondents from all socio-economic backgrounds in Nairobi County, and the results used to make this analysis. Rogers’s diffusion of innovation theory and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology were theories from which the study borrowed its theoretical background. Findings showed that 36% of respondents owned some form of solar PV units. Most of these used their Pico units such as torches and phone charging devices. These are used occasionally for when power fails. It could be associated with the fact that many of them they were found to live close to power lines had to have had access to mains electricity. Only 0.2% had solar systems that were used consistently for their energy needs, and these had larger solar home systems. The most significant perception that households in Nairobi considered in buying solar PV products conditional value. It had a score of 84%. It was followed by novelty value at 80%, then environmental concern measure at 76%. Functional value came in fourth at 72%, then the emotional value at 67% and finally, social value at 46%. From the study findings, it is recommended that the government works with players in the solar PV industry to make sure that conditions that help the adoption of solar PV are improved to boost consumption. Manufacturers and innovators of solar PV are also encouraged to keep up with the innovation to maintain superior productivity for lower prices as consumers were found to be sensitive to the pricing on the units. They are also encouraged to market their products through other forms of communication such as media advertisement as most consumers learnt of their products by observation of the installation of their neighbours.