Equity in Renewable Energy Technology Adoption in China: a Review of the Social-Psychological and Demographic Barriers

Renewable energy research in China often underestimates the impact of non-technical or human factors on adoption, as well as the impacts of these factors on energy inequality. This review investigates how social-psychological and demographic factors influence the adoption of electric vehicles, photovoltaic panels, solar water heaters, and smart home technology, especially in rural China. Renewable energy technology adoption in China is extensive, but many social-psychological and demographics barriers to greater diffusion have not been addressed in research or policy. Studies suggest that subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, government support, and knowledge about the technology are the most important social-psychological factors affecting adoption intention in China. Demographic factors and concomitant equity issues have received little attention are largely unstudied in China-specific research and constitutes a major research gap. The limited available literature suggests that the significant demographic factors are, income, urban versus rural setting, education, and cultural values weighted towards collectivism and uncertainty avoidance. We conclude with future research opportunities and policy recommendations.