Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic System Social Acceptance in Saudi Arabian Residential Sector: Unveiling Public Sentiments a Survey Study

Saudi Arabia has embarked on a transformative journey, transitioning from an oil-centric to an environmentally-focused economy. A recent initiative involves empowering house-holds to generate electricity through small-scale residential rooftop solar photovoltaic systems (RRSPV). Despite this, the uptake of RRSPV deployment remains notably low. Acknowl-edging that the social acceptance of solar energy is pivotal for a successful energy transition, this research explores the acceptance of rooftop solar photovoltaic (RSPV) systems within the residential sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Through a comprehensive survey study employing a cross-sectional, web-based pilot survey with 214 participants representing the six main regions of Saudi Arabia, the research sheds light on crucial insights. Results indicate a commendable level of awareness, with 71.4% of respondents familiar with RSPV. Additionally, 66.7% believe RSPV can contribute to achieving the Kingdom's Vision 2030 targets, while 83.8% anticipate benefits such as reduced energy bills and increased energy independence. Key barriers to RSPV adoption include a lack of awareness about local installation companies and uncertainties related to government policies or regulations. These findings provide valuable insights into prevailing sentiments, attitudes, and potential barriers, thereby informing strategies aimed at catalyzing the widespread adoption of sustainable energy solutions in Saudi Arabia.