Perception Influence on Adoption of Solar Energy Technologies at Household Level in Konoin Sub-County, Bomet County, Kenya

Abstract

Globally, the demand and price of energy, especially fossil fuels, is rising because of growing population and economic crisis. The Kenyan government spends a substantial amount of money importing fossil fuels to satisfy the needs of its citizens. The rising use of fossil fuels has substantial environmental consequences, including increased carbon emissions. It is necessary to use solar energy technologies, such as solar power, to reduce the impacts of fossil fuels on the environment. Thus, there is need for more knowledge about the factors influencing adoption of solar energy technologies in the study area. This research investigated how perception affects the adoption of solar energy technologies in households. Descriptive research survey approach was used. There were 38,178 households in Konoin sub-county, and 387 respondents were selected for the survey. Stratified-random sampling was used to choose 80 households from Mogogosiek, 84 from Boito, 91 from Embomos, 64 from Kimulot, and 61 from Chepchabas wards. Purposive sampling was used to choose seven key informants. Primary data was gathered through the use of a semi-structured questionnaire. The data was examined using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. Findings indicate that perception has a limited correlation with adopting solar energy systems in homes.