Solar Water Heater Diffusion in Taiwan and South Africa.
摘要
Solar Water Heaters are one of the most simple yet profoundly effective renewable technologies. Their simplicity, however, belies their potential to make a major contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions as well as stimulate local markets and macroeconomies. Solar water heaters have many benefits, they empower individuals and nations to contribute to environmental protection, save the homeowner money and create employment and skills development. Global concern over a looming energy crisis, water scarcity and man-made climate change are driving a huge demand for clean technologies, which focus on preserving the earth’s resources - energy, water, air and soil. This study examines the potential for widespread diffusion of solar water heaters in Taiwan and South Africa. Diffusion models such as Rogers (1962) and Bass (1969) are utilized to gain insight into what influences the adoption decision and to assess the key factors for widespread diffusion. Barriers and constraints to market expansion are analyzed to determine what strategies could be employed to overcome these barriers. The Payback Period Model (Sidiras & Koukios, 2005) is utilized as a measure of the economic viability and potential for diffusion. The payback period is widely recognized as the key element in the adoption decision.