Potential barriers to the installation of solar panels in the Maltese Islands

Abstract

Solar energy is being used by countries to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate human-induced climate change (Chua, 2016; Siler-Evans, Azevedo, Morgan, & Apt, 2013). The scope of this study was to identify what barriers are present when it comes to the installation of solar panels in the domestic sector of the Maltese Islands and whether they differ in different localities. The research was carried out using an online questionnaire targeting residents of the Maltese Islands. The focus was placed on two locations, one with high investment in solar panels (Mosta) and another with low investment (St. Paul’s Bay/Bugibba/Qawra) as this helped understand the different barriers present in the two localities. A total of 197 responses were recorded during the period the survey was available online. The results of the study show a significantly lower proportion of residents from St. Paul’s Bay/Bugibba/Qawra investing in solar panels. Also, a significant difference in the barriers to the installation of solar panels between the two locations was found. Residents of Mosta mainly choose not to invest in solar panels due to financial reasons, while residents of St. Paul’s Bay/Bugibba/Qawra do not invest primarily due to lack of access to their rooftops. From the results, it is recommended that schemes related to solar energy are adapted to make sure everyone can benefit. The introduction of solar rights was found to be an important factor that may help improve investment in solar panels.