Application of PV Systems in the Building Sector: An Investigation into Socio-Economic Factors in KSA

Worldwide, solar PV is playing a crucial role in improving the energy and environmental sustainability of buildings. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is currently transitioning toward renewable energy sources to reduce energy consumption and generate energy from renewable sources. One of the most significant renewable energy technologies is solar photovoltaics (PV), as part of Saudi Vision 2030. This study aims to evaluate the socio-economic awareness of PV technology in the residential sector of Saudi Arabia, as well as to analyze the attitudes and behaviors of individuals toward the use of electricity and its effectiveness in adopting PV technology as an alternative energy source. It targets a diverse sample of individuals from the local society, including men and women. The study analyses empirical data through a questionnaire-based survey and interviews. Results suggest that most respondents are unfamiliar with solar PV, with a value of 30.5%, and 47.6% do not have experience with the technology, seeing it work in another place. Results show that 49% of the respondents believe that males should be primarily responsible for decision-making regarding the optimization of electricity consumption. Overall, due to a lack of social acceptance, the local community of Saudi Arabia is not yet ready to implement PV technology in their homes. Although, economically, an overall percentage of 90.7% are interested in using PV technology in the future, 34.4% of them are unwilling to rearrange their roofs to install the PV panels for the additional cost. The interview results align with the survey, representing the lack of awareness in the local society about using less energy, adopting PV technology, and government policies. The interviewees suggested using campaigns, high tariffs, and incentives to encourage using less energy and adopting PV in the future.