Considerations in the Adoption of Solar Home System Technology in Indonesia
The high potential for solar energy in Indonesia has prompted the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of the Republic of Indonesia to aim for solar energy utilization. Unfortunately, since it was planned in 2010, the target has not been achieved due to the low interest of society to purchase and use solar home systems.
Using the Technology-Personal-Environment (TPE) framework, this study aims to identify the factors that are being considered in the adoption of solar home system technology and understand the interest of the Indonesian people in repurchasing it. The data for the study were obtained through in-depth interviews with eight participants.
The study found that most participants do not consider perceived simplicity, but they consider perceived compatibility, regulations, technology support providers, performance expectations, and personal innovation. It was found that trust is also considered by participants. Additionally, they consider Regulations, Need/Urgency, Price, Technology Specifications, and Maintenance in repurchasing solar home systems. A new model proposed which exchange the perceived simplicity from technology context by trust in personal context.
It is recommended that renewable energy companies disseminate information about solar home systems through targeted websites, social media, and advertisements. Moreover, it is recommended that the government enact regulations that can support the use of solar home systems, such as providing incentives, subsidizing its materials, and building domestic factories that can produce the materials. Finally, it is recommended that further studies use other research methods, test new variables, and us the proposed models.