Exploring the link between vulnerability of energy systems and social acceptance of renewable energy in two selected districts of Uganda
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Date
2020
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Energy Sector Management
Abstract
This paper aims to show preliminary evidence of the link between the perceived low
vulnerability of vital energy systems (LVRE) and social acceptance of renewable energy (SARE) while
treating environmental opportunities and threats (EOPT), renewable energy technological innovations
(TECH) and business model innovations as possible antecedents.
Design/methodology/approach – The objectives are delivered through a survey of 199 households
(potential and actual customers/suppliers of electric power and renewable energy gadgets in Kampala and
Wakiso districts of Uganda), and the data obtained were analysed using ordinary least squares (OLS)
regression.
Findings – Both LVRE and EOPT, on their own, significantly predict SARE. TECH significantlymediate in
the relation between EOPT and SARE. The highest form of SARE is market acceptance. Also, the current
state of vulnerability of vital energy systems in the two Ugandan districts seems to espouse energy security
as the real value of renewable energy. The study further finds that to deliver high SARE, there is a need to
encompass potential user performance expectations of renewable energy technologies.
Research implications/limitation – Because the current results are from only two cities (districts) of
Uganda and also based on a non-probability sample, generalizing them can be considered remote. In other
words, it appears that more complex models need developing and testing in the future concerning LVRE and
SARE. The present preliminary results are offered as a stimulus to such efforts. Well, it is expected, and,
consistent with the diffusion of innovations theory (Rogers, 1995), that the population in Kampala and Wakiso
districts are potential change agents (i.e. capable of influencing others in rural areas of Uganda).
Originality/value – The study estimates the direct and indirect effects to show how strongly TECH
operate. Basing on OLS regression coefficients, the indirect effects are larger. Using the medgraph, we find probably for the first time, the adoption of technological innovation explains a significant part of the link
between EOPT and SARE in the current study setting.
Description
Keywords
Social acceptance, Renewable energy, Mediation, Vulnerability of energy systems
Citation
Nkundabanyanga, S. K., Muhwezi, M., Musimenta, D., Nuwasiima, S., & Najjemba, G. M. (2020). Exploring the link between vulnerability of energy systems and social acceptance of renewable energy in two selected districts of Uganda. International Journal of Energy Sector Management, 14(6), 1089-1122. DOI 10.1108/IJESM-08-2019-0007