Understanding the Role of Social and Environmental Concerns on Solar Photovoltaic Adoption: A Systematic Review

Abstract

This paper aims to uncover the role of social and environmental issues play within the assimilation of photovoltaic energy infrastructure based on a systematic literature review and different studies results analysis. In alignment with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analysis (PRISMA) reporting standards, data for this systematic review were curated, yielding 66 qualifying articles demonstrating considerable variability in empirical findings. The analysis finds that the influence of social issues on how widely we adopt solar photovoltaic systems is crucial, while environmental concerns are mixed. Several studies have highlighted the critical role of social issues such as social interaction, leadership engagement, and community norms in shaping the willingness to adopt solar PV systems. In contrast, the impact of environmental issues is more ambiguous. While some studies highlight environmental awareness as a key motivator for adoption, others suggest it holds limited or negligible influence, with economic benefits often taking precedence. This points to a complex and sometimes counterintuitive relationship between environmental concern and solar PV adoption. To address these inconsistencies, it is essential to examine mediating variables that could clarify the connection between environmental attitudes and adoption intentions. Understanding these dynamics will help identify the principal determinants of photovoltaic assimilation from both social and environmental perspectives, thereby supporting more effective and strategically informed deployment of solar PV systems in pursuit of broader sustainability goals.