با همکاری انجمن اقتصاد کشاورزی ایران
نوع مقاله : مقالات پژوهشی به زبان انگلیسی
نویسندگان
1 گروه ترویج و آموزش کشاورزی
2 گروه ترویج و آموزش کشاورزی- دانشگاه رازی
3 گروه ترویج و آموزش کشاورزی- دانشکده کشاورزی- پردیس کشاورزی و منابع طبیعی- دانشگاه رازی
کلیدواژه‌ها
عنوان مقاله English
نویسندگان English
The growing importance of renewable energies in today's global landscape cannot be overstated (González et al., 2016). These energy sources have evolved into essential drivers of economic development, societal well-being, improved quality of life, and community security (Hatfi Ardakani & Rezaei Moghadam, 2015: 15; Naderi Mahdii & Mahmoudian, 2016: 62). Their significance is particularly pronounced in rural areas due to the unique challenges these regions face. Research indicates that approximately one-third of the global rural population lacks access to reliable electricity grids, and nearly half do not have access to clean water sources (Prasad et al., 2017). This underscores the critical role that clean energy, especially solar energy, can play in addressing these pressing challenges in rural regions. Integrating solar energy and other clean alternatives, particularly in sectors like agriculture, not only helps mitigate these issues but also triggers transformative changes within the sector (Hamdollahi et al., 2015: 95).
In Iran, the rising demand for energy, coupled with the depletion of fossil fuels, environmental preservation imperatives, air pollution reduction goals, limitations in electricity distribution, and the need to supply energy to remote villages, have highlighted the urgency of harnessing renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power (Hatfi Ardakani & Rezaei Moghadam, 2015: 110). Iran, with its significant potential for solar energy, aims to source about 10% of its energy from renewables by 2050, according to its 20-year plan (Dehghani & Feylizadeh, 2014). Among the renewable options, solar energy holds exceptional promise in Iran (Najafi et al., 2015). Recent global applications of renewable energy have effectively addressed the multifaceted challenges faced by residents of remote and energy-deficient areas, significantly improving public health standards. Additionally, these solutions can create employment opportunities, alleviate poverty, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and offer a flexible approach to development, particularly in rural settings (Naderi Mahdii & Mahmoudian, 2016: 56).Therefore, this research aims to complement and contextualize the TAM model within Kermanshah city. Consequently, the study will examine the level of acceptance and influential factors related to solar energy adoption among the rural population in the central part of Kermanshah city.This study affirms the first hypothesis, indicating a significant positive correlation between extension education and the intention to use solar energy. Recent research underscores this relationship. For instance, Bouaguel et al. (2022) and Cheam et al. (2021) have highlighted how educational initiatives enhance the adoption of solar energy technologies. Similarly, Hosseini & Soltani (2011) demonstrate that various educational tools, including videos and site visits, significantly influence solar energy adoption. This is further supported by research from Saqib et al. (2020) and Tsaur and Lin (2018), which stresses the importance of education in shaping behavioral intentions towards solar energy. However, challenges persist, as Ciriminna et al. (2016) and Hasanian et al. (1998) point out deficiencies in current renewable energy education, particularly in developing countries. Studies by Aadu et al. (2018) and Niraj et al. (2014) emphasize the crucial role of education in promoting renewable energy adoption.
The second hypothesis is also validated, showing a significant correlation between attitudes towards solar panel usage and the intention to use them. Research by Liobikienė et al. (2021) and Karimzadeh & Kasparova (2021) highlights that attitudes are strong predictors of the intention to adopt renewable energy technologies. Chen et al. (2016) and Kumar & Nayak (2022) further corroborate that positive attitudes towards solar panels enhance the likelihood of their adoption. This is consistent with the findings of Khare et al. (2013), who found a close relationship between attitudes and intentions regarding solar panel use.
The results support the fourth hypothesis, indicating a meaningful relationship between perceived usefulness of solar panels and public attitudes towards their adoption. Recent studies such as those by Ahmed et al. (2022) and Alrashoud & Tokimatsu (2019) confirm that perceived usefulness is a critical factor influencing attitudes towards solar technologies. Wüstenhagen et al. (2007) found that understanding the economic benefits of solar panels can positively affect public attitudes. Similarly, Qiblawey and Banat (2008) and Ben Cheikh et al. (2015) highlight how perceived economic advantages drive favorable attitudes towards solar energy adoption.
The fifth hypothesis is supported by a strong and statistically significant correlation between perceived ease of use and attitude. This aligns with recent research showing that greater perceived usability enhances positive attitudes. For instance, Zander et al. (2019) and Ngonda et al. (2023) emphasize that the ease of use is crucial for fostering favorable attitudes towards solar technologies. This supports the theoretical framework suggesting a positive interaction between ease of use and attitude.
In line with the sixth hypothesis, which examines the relationship between the acceptance of local elites and the understanding of panel installation benefits, a significant correlation is observed. Research by Simpson (2018) and Chen et al. (2021) indicates that local leaders play a vital role in promoting solar energy adoption by demonstrating technical feasibility and financial benefits. This is corroborated by Nasir Ahmadi et al. (2014) and Szabo et al. (2017), who find that respected community figures enhance the perceived benefits and acceptance of solar panels.
The seventh hypothesis, exploring the link between perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, is confirmed. Studies by Liming (2009) and Shaahid and El-Amin (2009) highlight that reduced maintenance and space requirements positively impact the perceived usefulness of solar panels. Abbasian (2015) also emphasizes the influence of perceived ease of technology on its acceptance, aligning with the findings of this study.
The eighth hypothesis, examining the relationship between promotional training and perceived ease of use, shows a meaningful link. Feiz (2009) and Yazdanpanah et al. (2019) argue that educational initiatives enhance public understanding of the ease of using solar technology. Geraint and Gianluca (2016) support this perspective, demonstrating that training and education significantly impact perceptions of ease of use.
Finally, the ninth hypothesis, exploring the relationship between promotional training and the acceptance of local elites, reveals a positive association. Rujola (2009) and Cai et al. (2009) find that media-based education, including television, plays a significant role in enhancing understanding of new technologies. Pirkandi et al. (2015) further support this by highlighting how media can aid in understanding the benefits of solar panels. These findings align with the current research, which underscores the importance of promotional training in influencing elite acceptance and adoption of solar energy.
کلیدواژه‌ها English
