Work

Perception and Challenges of Solar Energy Adoption in the United States: A Systematic Review for Future Directions

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: Despite growing technological and economic viability, the adoption of solar energy in the United States remains low. This research synthesizes 96 peer-reviewed publications from 2000 to 2024 to investigate how public perceptions, user psychology, institutional setups, and socioeconomic contexts shape solar energy adoption decisions in the United States. Drawing on a PRISMA systematic review of publications gathered from Scopus and Web of Science databases, the study reveals that solar adoption is influenced not only by environmental concern and perceived economic benefits but also by institutional trust, social norms, cognitive biases, and demographic characteristics. Key findings highlight that while higher income and education levels enable adoption, marginalized communities face persistent barriers, including institutional distrust, limited awareness, and constrained access to financing. Residential rooftop solar projects receive higher public approval than utility-scale developments, with agrivoltaics systems emerging as a promising middle ground. This review identifies critical gaps in public awareness and institutional credibility, calling for integrated policy responses that combine financial incentives with inclusive engagement strategies. By emphasizing the socio-behavioral dimensions of energy transitions, it offers actionable insights for policymakers, energy planners, and researchers aiming to broaden solar accessibility and equity. It underscores the need for future research on identity-driven adoption behavior, participatory energy planning, and depoliticized communication to bridge the intention-action gap and accelerate the just transition to solar energy.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su18010227

Authors: Jiwnath Ghimire, Dorcas Plange-Rhule, Elizabeth Smith

Institution: Iowa State University

Language: English

Topic: Social Acceptance of Renewable Energy

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Reduced inequalities, Climate action, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896