Are we really addressing the roadblocks to adoption of renewable and sustainable energy technologies? Total interpretive structural modeling approach

Abstract

Urban areas serve as a vital contribution to the global structural change towards renewable and sustainable energy technologies which also influence climate change. The aim of this paper is to identify the adoption roadblocks to renewable and sustainable urban energy technologies. This research has three parts: a mini-systematic literature study was conducted to identify the most prevalent roadblocks. Using total interpretive structural modeling (ISM), the relationships between the roadblocks and the source of causation were then examined. The roadblocks are classified based on their dependence and driving powers using MICMAC analysis in the third part of this research. The principal results and major conclusions demonstrate that all roadblocks are necessary for renewable and sustainable urban energy technologies. The roadblocks at level I are insufficient infrastructure, lack of coordination among authorities, lack of quality and reliable data and information, and competition with non-renewable technologies; roadblocks in level II are lack of skilled and trained personnel, limited public participation, awareness, and consumer interest, and lack of standardized technology; roadblock in level III is high initial investment cost; and lastly, roadblocks in level IV are lack of subsidies and financial support programs and absence of coherent related policies. Furthermore, as a result of the MICMAC analysis, none of the aforementioned roadblocks are classified as autonomous variables, implying that they are all required. The dependent roadblocks to renewable and sustainable energy technologies are defined as lack of coordination among authorities, lack of information, and competition with non-renewable technologies. Moreover, linkage roadblocks have high dependence and driving powers which are insufficient infrastructure, limited awareness and consumer interest, and lack of standardized technology. Lastly, high initial investment costs, lack of subsidies and financial support programs, absence of coherent related policies, and lack of skilled and trained personnel are the driving roadblocks with high driving power however not dependent.

Keywords: Climate change; Sustainability, Renewable energy technologies; Sustainable energy technologies; Urban energy systems.