Investigation of the effective factors in the adoption of photovoltaic systems in Iranian households using causal loop diagrams

Supplying sustainable and clean energy is vital for any country. Therefore, policymakersthroughout the world are looking to replace renewable resources. Accordingly, the electricitygeneration from solar energy by photovoltaic systems has been enhanced by governments due toits environmental and sustainability benefits in comparison with fossil energy resources. Thehome sector with a share of about ۳۲% of electricity consumption is the second largest electricityconsumer sector in Iran. Reducing electricity generated by fossil fuels in this sector contributessignificantly to reducing Greenhouse Gasses emissions. However, the diffusion of photovoltaicsystems technology in households is strongly influenced by their adoption to use. This researchuses a system approach and is developed by the causal loop diagram. The aim was to investigatethe diffusion of photovoltaic systems technology in Iranian households. Results demonstrate thatthe uptake of photovoltaic systems by households reflects an interplay between economic, social,political, technical, and demographic aspects. Furthermore, owing to the unstable policy in Iran,social capital can considerably affect the household’s behavior and decision.

Keywords:

Renewable energy , Photovoltaic systems , Diffusion of innovation , Systemdynamics , Social capital.