Does community management influence household adoption of rooftop solar photovoltaics in rural China?

This paper examines inequality in household adoption of rooftop solar photovoltaics in rural China through a qualitative study of three villages. The Chinese government promotes distributed solar to drive low-carbon development. However, community management and China’s institutional system influence unequal access.

Why is China moving from centralized solar farms to small Solar projects?

In recent years, China has shifted its focus from centralized solar farms to smaller-scale distributed solar projects, as photovoltaic research continues to improve the technology and lower its costs.

How many households in Jiangsu have a rooftop PV system?

For example, Village Z in Jiangsu Province has 32 households. In 2017, the local power company planned free rooftop PV installation for 25 households, but only 23 were ultimately installed. Of the 9 non-adopters, 2 lacked suitable roofs, while others declined over roof damage or absentee concerns.

What is China's whole county PV programme?

To boost rooftop solar development and increase local production of clean energy, the Chinese government rolled out its Whole County PV programme in 2021. So far, 676 counties in 31 provinces have signed up, most of which are located in the eastern half of the country.

How many counties have signed up for a rooftop photovoltaic system?

So far, 676 counties in 31 provinces have signed up, most of which are located in the eastern half of the country. The programme encourages counties to build rooftop photovoltaic systems that cover at least 50% of government buildings, 40% of public buildings, such as schools and hospitals, 30% of commercial buildings and 20% of rural homes.

How can China promote distributed PV?

To promote distributed PV, China’s National Energy Administration launched a “county-level promotion” strategy in 2021. This strategy sets a target for at least 20% of rural households in 676 pilot counties and districts to adopt rooftop solar panels. The concept of “energy justice” originates from John Rawls’ theory of justice.